The County Commission on Wednesday approved rezoning for a major shopping complex on 53 acres at East Brainerd Road and Ooltewah-Ringgold Road.
Developer Bassam Issa said construction would likely not start until the middle of 2016.
He said the Enclave at East Hamilton will have 350,000 square feet of commercial space, including 60,000 square feet in the first phase.
After numerous meetings with residents, the developer agreed not to include 250 luxury apartments at the site. He said there will be no apartments.
Commissioner Sabrena Smedley said there was initially significant opposition to the project, but the neighborhood was won over by concessions made by the developer. She said a committee of nine or 10 members held 16 meetings on the project.
All of the agreed conditions were not included in the resolution passed by the commission. However, Commissioner Turner said the others are in a document signed by the developer and the committee members.
County Trustee Bill Hullander, who is also a resident of the area, convened the committee. Those serving on the committee included Sandra Adair, John Awad, Linda Benson, Bobby Cronan, Shaleigh Cronan, Scottie Neil, Bill Reesor, Chalie Rollins, Mark Smedley and Mark West, who served as the group’s chairman. Commissioner Smedley serves as ex-officio of the group.
Officials said, "After a series of 16 community meetings, the parties adopted a plan that limits total square footage, construction by phases, and the types of materials that are to be used in the construction of the buildings. In addition, it noted the special places and branding signage to be constructed to welcome visitors not only to the site but to the surrounding neighborhoods. Preservation of area woodlands and protection of the neighborhood from light and noise pollution were also made part of the plan."
Mr. Issa said, “As someone who lives within two blocks of the proposed site, I appreciate the attention to detail given by the committee for The Enclave. It makes the project better as I market it to potential tenants; but more importantly, it makes it a better fit for the neighborhood. After going through the process, I have an even greater appreciation for the project’s architects, Neuhoff-Taylor. Pat Neuhoff attended each community meeting and made changes that enhanced the entire project.”
Mr. West said, “The Enclave at East Hamilton began as a controversial project that had little support from the neighbors. Thanks to Sam’s willingness to work with all of us, we now have a project that promises to become a high quality retail destination and something that should enhance our Community in the years to come.”
Commissioner Smedley said she began working on the project before being elected to office this summer. She said other developers should follow the process applied to The Enclave. “Having consistent communication and meetings with the community to work through the details takes time, but the result is well worth the investment of time. I’d like to congratulate everyone involved in the project and look forward to seeing The Enclave at East Hamilton take shape.”