July 20, 2025

Alcoa Approves Expansion of New Midland Self Storage

News Summary

The Alcoa Regional Municipal Planning Commission has approved the expansion of New Midland Self Storage, allowing the construction of over 100 new storage units. The decision followed a review of site plans despite concerns about past project delays associated with the developer. The expansion aims to enhance storage options for residents and businesses, contributing to the area’s economic growth while ensuring compliance with city regulations.

Alcoa, Tennessee – The Alcoa Regional Municipal Planning Commission unanimously approved the expansion of New Midland Self Storage during its monthly meeting on Thursday evening, despite previous concerns regarding project delays. The approval comes after a review of site plans submitted by Bill Ring, the representative for the self-storage facility.

Ron Whittaker, representing C2RL Engineers Inc., presented the proposed expansion, which aims to create over 100 new storage units within two non-climate controlled buildings. These units will be accessible through garage bay doors. The site is located in the New Midland Plaza, just off North Calderwood Street. City Planner Jeremy Pearson had briefed the commission on the plans prior to the meeting, highlighting the need for adherence to city requirements.

Concerns were raised by some commission members regarding the history of delays associated with Ring’s previous projects. Three years ago, Ring presented plans to convert three to four acres of New Midland Plaza’s front parking lot into a community greenspace known as the “Great Lawn.” Despite plans for construction to commence in September 2023, these developments remain uncertain. This history of unfulfilled projects contributed to a level of skepticism among some commission members.

The proposed mini storage expansion is positioned adjacent to a city-owned parcel that contains the shared Alcoa-Maryville greenway and private drives, complicating zoning considerations. However, Ring’s proposal was found to comply with all city zoning requirements, provided he avoids improvements that would necessitate vehicle access to the rear lot.

During the meeting, Vice Mayor Tracey Cooper expressed concerns over Ring’s past behavior, pointing to the unfinished “Great Lawn” project as a manifestation of his unreliability in completing tasks. Nevertheless, City Planner Ashley Miller emphasized that the commission’s decision should be based on the merits of the current request, rather than the completion status of past projects. The commission acknowledged that the nature of the request, involving building permits, means that Ring cannot delay the new project indefinitely, like he did with the previous greenspace effort.

The commission ultimately approved the mini storage expansion, pending necessary upgrades to pavements and the approval of utilities. Future considerations regarding vehicular traffic flow will also be reassessed as the project progresses. Following the approval, Ring indicated that he plans to commence construction within 30 days, with an estimated completion time of approximately 150 days post-start.

This decision reflects a commitment by the commission to support development in Alcoa while also addressing past issues and promoting accountability in project execution. The New Midland Self Storage expansion is expected to provide additional storage solutions for residents and businesses in the area, enhancing economic activity within the community.

As Alcoa continues to develop and transform its landscape, the approval of this expansion signals a balance between fostering growth and ensuring proper oversight of developments within the city. The commission’s thorough review process aims to ensure that future projects meet the community’s needs while adhering to city regulations.

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