Downtown Cookeville Housing Project Takes Next Step Toward Approval

One of Cookeville’s first downtown living areas took a step toward approval Thursday night, with Cookeville City Council’s first reading on rezoning.

The council unanimously approved a redevelopment area overlay rezoning for the 2.87 acre site off Spring Street. It includes some 60 units on the old Builder’s Supply property. It sits just blocks from the depot area. The property is current zoned central business district.

“The Redevelopment Area Overlay district was established in 2013 as a mechanism for redevelopment, revitalization, rehabilitation and general improvement,” Community Development Director Jon Ward said.

A total of 20 three-story multi-family units will be built on individual lots. Each floor will contain a two-bedroom, two-bathroom housing unit. Access to the new development will be from South Oak and South Cedar. Sidewalk improvements will also be part of the site plan with new sidewalks set to be built on Oak Avenue, according to Ward. 148 parking spaces will be part of the development.

Ward said the Water Quality Control department is requiring the developer make improvements to the sewer infrastructure in the area.

Once the council gives its final approval on the project, the developer must submit a final RAO plan within six months to the planning commission.

No residents spoke during the Thursday night public hearing.