The Lubbock Planning and Zoning Commission voted on Thursday evening not to recommend a zoning change that would have allowed an asphalt plant to be built across the street from the Parkway Cherry Point neighborhood in East Lubbock. The decision keeps the area classified as residential rather than converting a portion to light‑industrial use.
Commission members heard arguments from both sides. Residents of Parkway Cherry Point voiced concerns that an asphalt plant so close to homes could affect air quality and public health. They also said the proposal continued what they described as a “century‑long pattern of putting industrial areas around homes in North and East Lubbock,” and they asked the board to deny the request.
Representatives for the proposed plant told the commission that the operation would meet all city standards, would maintain the road adjacent to the facility, and would act as a “good neighbor” to the community. Despite those assurances, the commission did not recommend changing the zone.
After the vote, a resident who attended the meeting praised the outcome, saying, “They brought evidence that I didn’t even know, and then we had all of the citizens that showed up that showed, ‘We don’t want it,’” adding, “That’s how you do city business. You do what the people want, not what you want, not what big corporations want. You do what the people want.” The resident noted they were not surprised by the result.
According to Fox 34, the case now moves to the Lubbock City Council, which is scheduled to consider the matter next month. The Planning and Zoning Commission’s lack of recommendation means the council will decide without a formal endorsement from the commission. Residents expressed hope that the council will reach the same conclusion.
City officials have not indicated any further action beyond the upcoming council meeting. The decision remains a key local issue for East Lubbock homeowners who are closely watching how land‑use decisions may impact their neighborhood’s environment and quality of life.
What’s next: The Lubbock City Council will hold a public hearing on the zoning request next month. Residents are encouraged to attend and submit comments before the council votes on whether to approve the rezoning.
