The Lariat Loop Scenic and Historic Byway is once again threatened by inappropriate development. On June 8th, 2011, an application (case #11-110479SU) was submitted for the expansion of the Activation Ministry International Center located at 166 South Lookout Mountain Road (see map at right-- the Center is indicated by the red balloon).   This facility was built during the 1990s, a time when churches could be erected under residential zoning codes. Current zoning (SR-5) would not allow it to be built in this area today. Activation Ministry International has applied for a Special Use permit so that they might be allowed this use.  In and of itself -- the right to rebuild should something happen to the existing building -- would not be an issue, except they have also applied for a proposed expansion of 30,000 square feet with an additional undetermined number of parking spaces.  In effect, they would be increasing their size by a factor of 3.3, establishing a mega-church in this very special area, complete with an event center (The Lookout Mountain Wedding Chapel), expansive parking facilities, greatly increased crowds, traffic and noise, and complete lack of sensitivity to the characteristics that make the Lariat Loop Scenic & Historic Byway so very special.