New duplexes are in the future for the corner of Nashville Highway and Spring Valley Road. 

McMinnville Housing Authority has received preliminary plat approval for phase one of Smith Terrace, a development for affordable elderly homes. Initial acceptance has been given by McMinnville Regional Planning Commission members. 

Plans for phase one include four duplexes for a total of eight units, an office, computer learning room, a recreational area, library, and community room. 

The duplexes will provide eight one-bedroom homes for residents age 62 or older. They will be within walking distance of the amenities.

Housing Authority executive director Patricia Basham says this development will be similar to the one off Spring Street called Griswold Terrace.

“There is no second floor, no matter what it looks like,” said Basham. “That’s an illusion. The dormers make them look much more like a regular community. They will have carports. They are single carports but there will be longer driveways suitable for visitors. There should not be a problem with parking.”

City administrator Nolan Ming asked what would be included in the recreational area. 

“It’s probably, hopefully, going to be a gazebo with some walking area and corn hole games, but no playground-type equipment,” said Basham. “We are still trying to work out smoking 25 feet from the dwelling unit. It may be a smoking area also.” 

Once the project begins in late fall 2019 or early spring 2020, said Basham, construction is estimated to take between six and eight months. 

Preliminary plat approval was the first step in the process. Final approval will be considered when McMinnville Regional Planning Commission meets next month.