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The resurrection of plans for the Arthur property on the west end of Germantown’s central business district earlier this month brings up past potential projects for the site and the problems those faced.
A local developer presented his thoughts for the 33 acres on the south side of Poplar Avenue between Saddle Creek and the homes on the short stretch of Miller Farms Road. The property, saddled with topography problems and other issues, has remained vacant as development has occurred nearby.
That doesn’t mean others haven’t come up with ideas for the Arthur property.
Developers have presented concepts from offices to businesses to residences and apartments. There was one whisper that Trader Joe’s considered the land for its entry into the Memphis-area market. Another thought was expanding Saddle Creek to the west onto the site.
One plan even considered buying the houses on the east side of Miller Farms Road to allay concerns about drainage on the homeowners.
All these years later, the land still stands empty except for foliage, trees and weeds.
Oh, and the homeowners on Miller Farms Road also remain.
One of the major sticking points is always how the water would flow off the property. The natural topography sends the drainage downhill into the back of some Miller Farms Road properties.
When a past plan would arise, the James Black family on the street’s corner always expressed that concern. They didn’t seem as bothered by the traffic on Poplar Avenue; they didn’t want the water rushing down to their property. With the addition of impervious surfaces in the development, the worries are enhanced.
High Mountain Investments and Stuart Maxwell, who presented the company’s plan, have suggested some detention remedies on the west side of the property that could address those worries, according to preliminary sketches.
And while drainage continues as a concern, other issues arose during an initial presentation to Germantown’s sketch-plan committee.
Maxwell said they would like to build a mixed-use development with a hotel, office, retail, 25 single-family residential lots and 400 loft apartments and townhomes.
Anytime apartments are mentioned, that immediately draws resistance, especially 400 compared to 25 homes.
“When I see the 400 units, I’m done,” said Alderman Tony Salvaggio, who this month took his seat on the Board of Mayor and Aldermen. “... It doesn’t get us started on the right foot.”
So there is little doubt Maxwell and company have to massage the plan before formal consideration by the suburb.
From apartments to drainage.
An uphill climb for a downhill problem.
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