Fleshman - Clark Farm

Fayetteville, Fayette County

Located on the edge of town, the Fleshman/Clark farm was the scene of the Battle of Fayetteville (10 September 1862) and contains a Civil War cemetery with at least 24 American soldiers. Paramount Development Corp. has approached the City of Fayetteville and asked that they rezone the 60-acre farm for commercial use. On the site Paramount intends to build a Wal-Mart, Lowe's, and 13 smaller businesses. Opponents have asked the city to deny the rezoning request, but officials voted to approve a zoning change. Local opponents fear the shopping center would disturb the site, traffic and noise would destroy their quiet neighborhood, and the new stores would have a negative impact on existing businesses. While facing a possible court challenge, the developer is continuing initial site preparations. Numerous studies, including a cultural resource assessment, have already been undertaken.