Sometimes when a new apartment complex is proposed for an area, residents and businesses complain, citing traffic concerns, decreased property values or changes in the "feel" of the neighborhood.
That's not the case on Highway 58.
Area residents and business leaders are optimistic about a new 250-unit apartment complex recently preliminarily approved by the Hamilton County Planning Commission near the intersection of Highway 58 and Hickory Valley Road. The project still has to be approved by the Hamilton County Commission.
"We're actually for it," said Eagle Bluff resident John Keegan. "We think it will help drive businesses in the area. Right now we are lacking in restaurants and good shopping."
David Hawke, president of the Enterprise Gateway Council of the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce, agrees.
"Most of the businesses we have in our area are industrial, so anything that can help this area be more diverse is a good thing," he said. "The population out here really wants to see a restaurant along the lines of something that has a bar and a nice place to eat, so the more people we have out here, the better the chances of that."
After opening its newest branch on Highway 58, Physicians Care marketing coordinator Carolyn Lynn said the business she represents is also excited about bringing more residents to the community.
"We think it's wonderful. We welcome anything that will help revitalize the area," she said. "The more that area grows, the better it's going to be for all the businesses in the area."
With rent at the new apartments listed at $750 to $1,350 per month for one-, two- and three-bedroom units, Hawke said the new complex sounds like it will be similar to the already existing Cross Creek Villas apartments off Oakwood Drive.
"The last time I knew, that place was at 98 percent capacity, so we definitely need more options," he said in regards to Cross Creek.
Keegan said he sees the Highway 58 area as one of untapped potential for development and growth.
"Unfortunately we have not experienced growth as much as other areas have," he said. "We're just glad to see it develop."
More restaurants, grocery stores and retail options are some of the types of businesses Keegan said he would like to see have more presence in the area.
"We need something to help drive that growth out here," he said.
To read more about the new apartment complex, visit timesfreepress.com/news/2013/jun/12/apartment-complex-proposed-for-highway-58.