Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions regarding master land use plans, we are here to help. We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions, which covers topics such as the purpose of a land use plan, how it is developed, and how it is implemented. We believe that a clear understanding of the process is critical to the success of any planning endeavor, and we encourage you to reach out to us for further information.

What is the master use plan?

The master use plan is a land use and infrastructure plan that sets forth local goals, objectives, and policies for community growth and/or redevelopment over the next 20-30 years. The current Wilson County Gateway Land Use Master Plan was adopted by the Wilson County Planning Commission in 2006. It focused on eight (8) gateways into the county and identified the most appropriate development patterns at each gateway.
What will the plan do?

The plan is a countywide initiative to engage residents and others in a conversation about future growth. It will: · Guide land development decisions and infrastructure investments. · Identify suitable areas for residential, commercial, agriculture, and industrial development. · Identify areas that should be preserved and conserved.
Why is the plan being updated now?

Since 2010, over 280 people have been added to the county every month, representing a 30% increase in population. By 2045, over 250,000 people are expected to live in the county, necessitating an updated plan to accommodate this growth.
What is the process to update the Wilson County Master Plan?

The process to update the Wilson County Master Plan consists of three phases: · Phase 1 – Vision and Expectations: Listening to the public and stakeholders to gather input · Phase 2 – Exploring 'What If' Scenarios: Brainstorming potential future land use options · Phase 3 – Setting Strategy: Identifying recommendations to help set policy and guide future development decisions
Has Wilson County completed a study to identify areas best suited for industrial growth? Is that public information? If so, how can I find it?

Yes. In 2006, the Wilson County Master Land Use Plan identified areas of the county for commercial and residential use, completed market analyses, and identified metrics to determine locations and infrastructure that may meet thresholds for consideration of different land uses in the various portions of the county. https://wilsoncountytn.gov/DocumentCenter/View/472/wilson_county_glump_final
Can Wilson County impose higher impact fees to slow growth?

Wilson County currently imposes an Adequate Facilities Tax (AFT), its version of an impact fee on new development. These fees are intended to support funding of capital projects tohelp mitigate the impact of growth,but their purpose is not specifically to deter development. For more information on AFT, visit: https://www.capitol.tn.gov/Bills/103/Bill/HB2122.pdf
What can be done to mitigate the negative impact of growth on schools, infrastructure, and quality of life

Regulatory tools like zoning ordinances and subdivision regulations are the primary tools governments use to minimize the negative impacts of growth on services, programs, and infrastructure.The plan will outline recommendations for policies and actions for the county to consider as it works to mitigate these impacts in the future.
Does planning include creating affordable housing for the working class moving here to work in the growing industries?

The plan will provide recommendations to County officials on actions or policies that couldsupport the development of affordable housing.
What does the highest and best use mean?

The highest and best land use is defined as the most profitable, legally permissible, and financially feasible use of a property that results in the highest value. This is a standard concept in real estate and property analysis.
How or why does Williamson County not have commercial warehouses like Wilson County?

Williamson County has commercial warehouses and industrial properties. Site selection for warehouses is influenced by the available infrastructure to support business operations. Wilson County’s geographic location and access to interstates and rail lines, among other attributes,make it a desirable environment for warehouse operations.
How can we protect our rural farmland and expand local farms?

The plan can help support the preservation of farmland by identifying policies, zoning ordinances, and other tools at the county’s disposal that can balance growth with agricultural preservation. These recommendations will be outlined in the plan and include suggested actions that the county can take to implement them in a way that supports the community's vision. Farmers should be involved in this plan update and have a representative on the Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, and/or Board of County Commission to ensure their voices are heard. In addition, there are conservation easements and other tools, like the Land Trust for Tennessee, to help preserve agricultural land.
When will they build enough properly sized roads to handle the present traffic volume?

New roadways are designed with future traffic capacity in mind, but growth has exceeded projections in many areas. While widening roads may seem like a solution, it is not always feasible or effective due to financial, environmental, and traffic-related challenges. As our region faces increasing demand for the transportation system, efforts are focused on improving congestion through technology, roadway enhancements, and expanding transit options to better support mobility needs.
How are the city and county commissioners across Wilson County coordinating?

City and county staff in Wilson County regularly communicate about development projects that may impact multiple jurisdictions. As part of the Master Land Use Plan update, county staff have been coordinating with city officials to keep them informed throughout the process. Additionally, existing plans from each jurisdiction are reviewed and considered to ensure alignment with the broader planning efforts.
Why are subdivisions allowed on narrow county roads such as Lone Oak Road?

Subdivisions are permitted on roads like Lone Oak Road because, despite their narrow width, these roads are part of the public County Road network. This means that landowners, whether private residents or developers have the legal right to access and use them, including subdividing property as allowed by law. In recent years, the county has increased requirements for developers to improve roads impacted by their projects. For example, recent developmentsalong Lone Oak Road included widening sections to add a center turn lane and a deceleration lane at the entrance. However, any required improvements must be proportionate to the development's impact on the existing roadway system.
Shouldn't development be planned based on projected or potential growth? Is there a limit to growth in the vision?

Growth is inevitable, and development follows growth. A land use plan is designed to identify how and where the community wants to grow in the future. Understandably, it cannot stop growth, but elected and planning officials can guide the location and intensity of development based on the plan's recommendations and incentivize the types of development the community prefers.
What can planners do to mitigate the impact of industrial development on I-40 and support the creation of jobs and affordable housing without using the rural feel? What about more parks?

Planners can mitigate the impact of industrial development on I-40 by promoting land use policies that balance growth with preserving the county’s rural character. The updated master land use plan will help guide development by identifying appropriate locations and types of growth that align with the community’s vision. While Wilson County does not operate parks, existing state and local parks contribute to preserving open spaces and enhancing quality of life. The land use plan will include recommendations that decision-makers can implement or study further to ensure responsible development that meets economic needs without compromising the county’s character
Can this plan help create better walkable connections between neighborhoods, stores, and parks?

Walkability is an important issue, especially for families and seniors. A component of the land use plan update is to reassess the land use typologies in the future land use map and make revisions to address trends and community interests. The plan could recommend land use and transportation improvements in areas that support pedestrian and bicyclist connections. The community and Wilson County government would need to support this.
Is there a plan to add public transit from Wilson County to Nashville Airport?

While there are no current plans to implement transit from Wilson County directly to the airport, the region’s long-range transportation plan has identified airport connectivity as a priority. The WeGo Star is a commuter rail service from Downtown Nashville to Lebanon. This does not connect directly to the Airport; however, you can connect to WeGo's bus system at any Star Station that can connect you to the Nashville Airport (BNA).