Residents continued to weigh the pros and cons of a $90 million project planned for an empty lot behind Nolensville's town hall. The Nolensville Board of Mayor and Aldermenfirst approved the plan in August, but some neighbors are worried the project could bring new problems to the area.
"If you try to get out on Nolensville Road out of this neighborhood, almost anytime of day but especially in the morning and evening, it's virtually impossible," said Duane Norman, whose neighborhood sits adjacent to the project site.
Other neighbors are worried construction blasting could damage homes and noise will increase even after construction is finished.
The project will add 75 new 1-3 bedroom condo units, about 45-thousand square feet of office space, and nearly 85-thousand square feet of retail space.
It's called the Nolensville Market Square.
Melissa Hall, whose business Mama's Java Cafe sits nearby, said the project will likely increase traffic on the town's busy, one lane, main thoroughfare - but she's excited a town square concept could increase foot traffic.
"The concept is similar to Franklin's downtown, with pedestrians and boutiques," Hall said. "If people can park and walk, then that eliminates the cars on the roads."
Hall first opened her shop seven years ago. She said the town's growth has helped her business expand to the point that they'll soon sell bags of coffee in grocery stores like Kroger.
"There is room for more businesses," she said. "A little competition is good. It forces businesses to look at themselves and make sure they're doing the right thing at all times."
Town leaders will meet with developers on November 17 at 7:00 p.m. for a work session. After that, the project will go to a final vote to approve the project in December.
