The Planning Commission on Monday recommended approval for a new Walmart Neighborhood Market despite some opposition.
Several residents said it would exacerbate traffic problems along two-lane Middle Valley Road and Thrasher Pike as well as worsen flooding problems.
One speaker said there are already five different groceries within a six-minute reach.
However, two former County Commission members, Mitch McClure and Jim Vincent, spoke in favor. The commission was told that current Commissioner Marty Haynes also approved. Mr. Vincent said Middle Valley has been lacking development that has gone to other areas. Rev. McClure hosted a meeting about the project at his nearby Middle Valley Church of God.
It was stated that 20 citizens attended and all but two favored the project. Some opponents said they did not get word of the meeting.
Chris Barrett, a Cleveland, Tn., engineer speaking for Polestar Development, said the 7.8-acre site has adequate room for detention areas that will lessen the runoff by 50 percent. He said two undersized driveways across a water runoff area would be replaced with a large crossing with much-enlarged pipes.
He said a traffic study should be ready in 2-3 weeks, and the firm would follow its recommendations for any improvements, including possible turn lanes.
The grocery would have 41,117 square feet and would be adjacent to a fuel center with six pump islands.
Four homes are now at the site.
Ganns Middle Valley Elementary is nearby. It was noted that a new school is to be built at the rear of the site within 18 months that will also accommodate students from Falling Water.
The RPA staff is recommending approval for the rezoning.