News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Cookeville Planning Department will further study expanded zoning for campgrounds and RV parks after the planning commission postponed a vote on the item.
The proposal considered would allow tourists in local commercial zoning. Chair Jim Woodford said the commission wants to form requirements that suit tourists before making a decision.
“It is a request for RVs that we do not have regulations for currently in the city code, and the reason we are taking a little longer on this is we want to do this correctly and be consistent with other cities,” Woodford said.
Woodford said duration of stay, locations within the city and size requirements just a few factors that need a closer look. Woodford said keeping the developments away from residential areas will be a goal.
“We want to be careful where we put these,” Woodford said. “We know it has to be in a commercial zone, but where in Cookeville? Are we going to restrict certain areas or locations? We just want to be fair and accommodate tourists or workers that are using an RV.”
Woodford said as Cookeville has grown, so has the need for RV parks. Woodford said tourists from other states often inquire on camping locations. Woodford said Cookeville has some opportunities, but obviously needs more.
“The chamber has reached out, because I think they have had requests if there are RV parks in our area,” Woodford said. “People come to the state parks in this area and the lakes. Tourists from other states asking if it is available. We want to be sure we can accommodate.”
The planning department will provide recommendations to the commission early in the new year.
