Rock City is facing opposition from some Walker County residents as the attraction seeks approval to rezone property it already owns as part of a long-term expansion plan.
According to zoning documents from the Walker County Planning Commission, a proposed Rock City expansion is described as a “relative gain to the public.” The 14-acre parcel in question is currently zoned residential, and Rock City is requesting that it be rezoned for commercial use. The request is scheduled to be reviewed by the Walker County Planning Commission on Thursday.
At the same time, the Lookout Mountain, Georgia City Council is expected to consider a related zoning ordinance Tuesday night involving the same property. The agenda lists the item as a request for an amendment to the city’s zoning ordinance and includes a detailed legal description of the land, outlining boundaries along Patten Road, near the original Grandview Estate line, along the natural curves of the mountain bluff, near Ochs Highway, and back to Patten Road.
Under the proposed ordinance, the Single-Family/Business Conference District and all structures and uses within it would be subject to the same height and area regulations as the city’s Single-Family District.
Rock City officials say there has been confusion among residents about what is being requested and which government bodies have authority over the decisions. In an email to WTVC-TV, the company said the 14-acre parcel it seeks to rezone is located in unincorporated Walker County and is not within the town limits of Lookout Mountain, Georgia. Rock City said the rezoning request for that property will be heard solely by the Walker County Planning Commission.
In a presentation to the Lookout Mountain Municipal Planning Commission, Rock City outlined potential expansion plans that include a gondola system, a new parking entrance, and a new landing at the top of the mountain. The company said the project would create additional jobs while reducing traffic congestion.
Rock City also noted that the property under consideration sits adjacent to its existing operations on a steep portion of Lookout Mountain. According to the company, the terrain makes the land unsuitable for residential or agricultural use under its current zoning.
In addition to the county rezoning request, Rock City is seeking a text amendment to a zoning ordinance with the City of Lookout Mountain, Georgia. That request will be considered by the city council for approval or denial.
Rock City said it is aware of concerns raised by nearby residents and neighbors and has encouraged them to reach out directly with questions or feedback at [email protected].
The company said both zoning actions represent the first step in carrying out a long-range master plan that began in 2022 with assistance from industry experts at PGAV Destinations. The Walker County Planning Commission is expected to review the rezoning request Thursday, while the Lookout Mountain, Georgia City Council will take up the related ordinance Tuesday night.