RAO Proposal to Bring New Townhouses to Cookeville

Cookeville City Council passed a proposed Redevelopment Area Overlay (RAO) district that would bring new townhouses along Chestnut Avenue.

Planning Director James Mills said 17 two-story townhouses would replace two currently-condemned structures on the proposed area.

“In the opinion of the Planning Department, significant public benefit will be achieved by removal of these structures,” Mills said. “Construction will be completed within two years. The floor plans indicate that the [townhouses] will have a kitchen and living area on the first floor, and two bedrooms and two baths on the second floor.”

Mills said the proposal could eventually lead Chestnut Avenue being widened slightly if the city deems it necessary.

“The plan also shows the dedication of right-of-way on Chestnut Avenue. 6.5 feet of additional property will be dedicated to the city for right-of-way so if at some point it’s needed, Chestnut could be widened between 3rd (street) and 4th,” Mills said. ”

Councilman Mike Miller said the area of Chestnut Avenue and West 4th Street, commonly referred to as ‘The L Block’, has seen its fair share of action over the years.

“When I did my first ride along (with Cookeville Police) before I got into my profession… I asked the officer where’s action at and he’s like ‘It’s right here at the L Block,'” Miller said. “It is a high crime, high call volume area. I’m really excited we’re able to revitalize that area and beautify it for our city.”

The proposed RAO district will need to be approved on second reading before the ordinance takes effect. Cookeville City Council next meets Thursday, Sept. 20 at 5:30 p.m.