The high density rental housing development planned at 9900 Westland Drive in Knox County poses significant challenges for the residents of Westland Oaks and nearby areas. Expanding the subdivision to include 68 rental units threatens to overwhelm local infrastructure. Residents are deeply concerned about several issues, such as worsening traffic congestion on Westland Drive, a road already burdened by safety hazards for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. School impacts are also inevitable. The project will also clear wooded areas, diminishing green spaces, displacing wildlife, increasing the potential for erosion and flooding in surrounding areas, and altering the neighborhood’s character. Furthermore, this multifamily rental development plan violates the Westland Oaks Declaration of Covenants, Easements, Conditions and Restrictions, which explicitly permits only single-family homes. This Declaration was approved by Knox County in 2019 and applies to the undeveloped property proposed for development. 

The stakes are too high to ignore. Without community action, these impacts will create severe, long-term impacts and safety issues. The loss of native green spaces could lead to poor air quality, increased stormwater runoff, and other environmental effects, while also delaying emergency response times due to traffic congestion that could ultimately endanger lives. The community’s safety depends on addressing these issues before irreversible changes occur.

Now is the time to act! Knox County and developers must prioritize responsible growth by conducting comprehensive studies, implementing traffic management solutions, and adhering to zoning and covenant regulations. Immediate action is essential to protect the well-being of residents, safeguard the environment, and uphold the values of sustainable suburban planning. Together, we can ensure growth that benefits everyone while preserving the quality of life in Westland Oaks.

Sign the petition today to oppose further development in Westland Oaks and the Westland Drive neighborhoods.