University Wants to Rezone 450 Acres on the Domain

The University is seeking approval from the Franklin County Regional Planning Commission to rezone approximately 450 acres of the Domain from agricultural and R2 zoning to mixed-use. A map of the area under consideration is available at <leases.sewanee.edu>.
The University currently has two areas of campus in mixed-use zoning: downtown and Parsons’ Green, and the area around the hospital and Sewanee Inn.
Mixed-use zoning recognizes what already exists in this 450-acre area of campus: a mix of buildings that are residential, educational, and commercial. Mixed-use zoning means the University will no longer be required to seek a variance for new construction. This zoning will provide more buildable areas, allow more flexibility in design, and will bring some existing buildings into compliance with zoning regulations. It will also correct residential zoning for areas that are currently zoned “agricultural.”
Leases within the rezoned area will not be affected as long as they continue to be used as they are now. The Franklin County Property Assessor’s office has confirmed that each property will be assessed according to its use, and as long as a lease continues to be used as a residence, the assessment will be the same.