This is the ideal of Traditional Neighborhood Development, the model for
an 80-acre community by Hunts Crossing Development LLC in Kingsport, Tennessee. It is part of a movement away
from the increasing urban sprawl around American cities that eats up rural landscapes and
fosters dependence on fossil fuels. Many consumers simply prefer the lower maintenance
associated with smaller lawns.
George Hunt, his brother, sister, and nephew wanted to do something special with the
scenic tract owned by the Hunts for three generations when they conceived of Hunts
Crossing, a design that integrates businesses, trails, and open spaces into a residential
community. 
"Cars will be secondary here. People will be primary," says Hunt, who is in
charge of planning and managing the project. "The theme for our project is
‘Yesterday Once Again’ because we’re bringing the lifestyles and traditions
of yesterday into a modern setting. We draw from times when neighborhoods really meant
neighbors, when porches were used for sitting, and a stroll would lead to a neighborhood
store."
Anderson & Associates has been in charge of Hunts Crossing’s engineering and
design, and has been involved with other similar projects. Some of the first traditional
neighborhood developments include Seaside and Celebration, in Florida; others are located in Charlotte, Richmond, Arlington, and many other
locations.
Plans at Hunts Crossing call for about 180 single-family homes in classic, two-story
designs with porches and about 40 town homes, as well as businesses and offices.
Installation of utilities for Phase I residences is being completed and lots will soon go
up for sale.
Hunts Crossing will be distinguished by its winding streets, rear access lanes, trails,
and rear garages. The homeowners association will determine amenities and use of the open
spaces; an architectural review board will monitor building designs. Home sizes will be
1,500 – 3,000 square feet, designed to attract homeowners of all ages.
George Hunt, who has taught architectural drafting and design in college, grew up in
the Tri-Cities area of East Tennessee, graduated from East
Tennessee State and earned his Master’s degree from Virginia
Tech. He and his wife, Jo Ann, have two sons, both of them Hokie engineers, and three
grandchildren. He lived in the rolling hills of the Hunts Crossing property for several
years during his childhood.
