Commission advances Savannah Marketplace amendment despite intense neighborhood concern over proposed gas station

The Gallatin Municipal Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of a rezoning and amended preliminary master development plan for Savannah Marketplace phases 4 and 5, a mixed‑use proposal covering roughly 13.85 acres that envisions 96 single‑family homes, 60 residential units in mixed‑use buildings and about 20,000 square feet of commercial space.

Planning staff said the proposed zoning change to MU (mixed use) and the amended plan would allow a broader mix of housing and commercial uses and recommended approval with conditions, including updated traffic analysis and pro‑rata contributions for intersection improvements. Staff also noted concerns about parking layouts and buffer widths and included 15 recommended conditions.

During the public hearing dozens of nearby residents expressed strong objections to parts of the plan, focusing on a proposed convenience store/gas station near Wedgwood/Winston neighborhoods. Speakers cited traffic safety at the Wedgwood/Highway 109 intersection, potential increases in crime, light and noise pollution and risks from underground fuel storage. One resident said the number of existing gas stations in the area already meets demand and called the proposed location "ill‑placed for traffic flow." Others described backups on Highway 109 and asked for additional traffic calming or signal warrants before approving more access.

Applicant representatives acknowledged the concerns and said they would update the traffic impact study prior to the final master development plan and agreed to a contribution toward the signal; they also explained parking counts and said the mixed‑use buildings would include structured parking options. Engineering staff told commissioners that the signal would ultimately be warranted by TDOT and that a revised traffic study and FMDP would be required prior to final approval.

Commissioners discussed balancing the competing objectives of providing housing and walkable mixed‑use centers while protecting neighborhoods from traffic impacts. After debate the commission voted to recommend approval with the conditions attached to staff's report; the item will now go to Gallatin City Council for consideration.