News Flash

Tennessee embraces Amtrak's rail expansion vision

Tennessee is cheering on Amtrak's ambitious U.S. expansion plan and pledging to partner on new passenger train routes across the state.

Middle Tennessee Mayors Adopt Update to Regional Transportation Plan

Mayors and Transportation Officials Adopt Update to Regional Transportation Plan

The update allocates more than $10.5 billion in anticipated federal grants and matching funds to Middle Tennessee projects between 2021 and 2045.

On February 17, mayors and tra...

GNRC Office Closed, Agency Staff Working Remotely

GNRC staff is continuing to work remotely, however, due to weather our office is closed. Those looking for information about Aging and Disability Services can call our Helpline at 615-255-1010 or 866-836-6678.

RTP Presentation Available, Small Group Sessions Scheduled

A recording of the presentation from the Feb. 4 Public Workshop is now available. Members of the public are encouraged to review and provide feedback. Follow up small group sessions have been scheduled for additional conversations to gather feedback.

Regional Transportation Plan Released for Public Review, Adoption Hearing Set

Regional Transportation Plan Released for Public Review, Adoption Hearing Set

Area residents and businesses encouraged to provide feedback on proposed transportation investments

            &...

Hendersonville board begins discussions on new COO position

There was compromise and civil discourse among Hendersonville’s Board of Mayor and Aldermen as discussions got underway last week on the creation of a new Chief of Operations for the city.

Burns’ 200-year-old Lonesome cabin considered for national Historic Places site

A state review board is scheduled to vote this week to determine if the Lonesome Historic Site in Burns will be considered for the National Register of Historic Places.

Amazon dedicates $2 billion for affordable housing in Nashville, Seattle, Arlington

Amazon will infuse more than $2 billion into the three communities hosting its new headquarters locations to develop affordable housing, company officials announced Wednesday.

Nashville Mayor taps 21 for advice on affordable housing budgeting

A group of 21 Nashville affordable housing leaders and advocates will convene later this month to begin preparing recommendations for next year's budget, at the mayor's request.

Nashville airport aims to bounce back from heavy 2020 losses

Nashville International Airport is in the midst of a feverish construction schedule, readying itself to host its largest crowds ever -- even as traffic has crashed to all-time lows.

Second Avenue to remain closed for 'some time' as bombing recovery continues

Second Avenue will remain closed indefinitely after the devastating Christmas morning bombing as city officials continue to comb through the rubble, assessing damage and looking for more evidence.

Nashville Mayor Cooper's contentious $1.6 billion transportation plan approved with edits

Nashville officially has a plan to upgrade its bus system, extend sidewalks, repair streets and add modern technologies to improve traffic flow. Now the city just needs to find $1.6 billion to pay for it over the next decade or so.

'Smoke and mirrors': Nashville Mayor John Cooper's transit plan gutted by council members

Nashville Mayor John Cooper's proposed vision for the city's transportation networks into 2030 and beyond was dismantled by council members ahead of a vote next week.

GNRC Announces 2020 Local Government Awards

Greater Nashville Regional Council Announces 2020 Local Government Award Recipients for Excellence in Public Service

Today, the Greater Nashville Regional Council (GNRC) announced the recipients for its annual Local Government Awards. The award program rec...

Work continues on Electrolux's $300 million expansion at Springfield factory

Electrolux's nearly $300 million expansion of its Springfield cooking manufacturing facility, complete with a 60-foot-wide underground tunnel, new factory and warehouse, is slated to open late next year.

White House development: 330 apartment and townhome units approved add to building flurry

A plan to build 240 apartment units and 90 townhomes has been approved in White House, adding to the ongoing flurry of residential building projects taking place in and around the city.

Dickson Senior Center closing again, cites COVID increase

The City of Dickson is closing the Dickson Senior Center again to “protect one of the most vulnerable populations." Dickson Mayor Don Weiss Jr. said the decision was made as COVID-19 cases have spiked in recent weeks in Dickson County.

Lebanon road projects: Where I-40, S.R. 109 and traffic light upgrades stand

Widening Interstate 40 and State Route 109 and a new traffic light system on West Main Street and U.S. 231 are among ongoing or planned road projects in Lebanon and eastern Wilson County.

GNRC to Invest$2.49 Million in Small Businesses

 The Greater Nashville Regional Council (GNRC) received $2.49 million from the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA) for CARES Act Recovery Assistance to lend to small businesses that have been adversely impacted b...

TDOT breaks ground on Williamson County State Route 96 widening project

Tennessee Department of Transportation broke ground on Tuesday on the State Route 96 widening project, which will stretch from Arno Road to Wilson Pike.

Going Green: New Nashville ordinance updates building codes, energy standards

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — Nashville is going green with a new ordinance that updates building codes and energy standards.

Mayor Cooper signed the legislation, BL2020-458, which updates standards that previously relied on models ...

I-65 in Nashville to close for bridge repair this weekend

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Bridge repairs will prompt a closure of I-65 in Nashville this weekend.

The project at I-65 at Wedgewood Avenue will close the interchange between I-440 and I-40 (downtown loop) in both directions beginning at 8 p.m. tonight th...

SmileDirectClub to open $34M manufacturing plant in Columbia, adding 600 new jobs

SmileDirectClub will invest $34 million into a new manufacturing facility in Columbia, bringing 600 new jobs to the area. The new plant will allow the oral care company to expand its manufacturing capabilities for its clear aligners.

Gov. Lee Announces Expanded Small Business Relief

Gov. Lee Announces Expanded Small Business Relief; New Relief Programs for Agriculture, Tourism, and Workforce Development

Nashville, Tenn. – Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and the Financial Stimulus Accountability Group announced today new and expa...

Amazon to open delivery stations in Wilson, Rutherford counties; to bring 'hundreds' of jobs

Amazon will lease buildings in Wilson and Rutherford counties that will be used as delivery stations, which the company expects to create “hundreds of full-time and part-time jobs."

Facebook is building an $800M data center in Gallatin

Construction is underway on an $800 million Facebook data center northeast of Nashville that will take up to three years to build and cover nearly 1 million square feet. The center will create 100 high-paying jobs.

Nashville will give $10 million in rent and mortgage payments to residents in need

A Metro Nashville committee charged with distributing $121 million in federal funds made rent and mortgage assistance one of its first orders of business.

Metro Public Works to take over more trash routes as complaints with contractor continue

Nashville Public Works employees will take over more trash routes starting this week as complaints of inconsistent pickup by the city's contractor intensify.

Kedron Square downtown project in Spring Hill readies first phase

The city’s vision to create its own bustling downtown square is prepping to enter its first phase of development, now known as Kedron Square. The sprawling multi-use development has an estimated 10-year construction timeline.

Metro Schools to start academic year remotely for all students as coronavirus cases mount

Metro Nashville Public Schools Director Adrienne Battle is expected to announce today that all students will start the academic year remotely as coronavirus cases continue to mount.

Nashville council passes ordinance allowing businesses to be run out of homes

Metro Councilmembers passed an ordinance overnight that allows businesses to be run out of homes with some restrictions. The ordinance, BL2019-48, lifts regulations on home-based businesses and defines a home business.

Nashville to revert to modified version of Phase Two

Mayor John Cooper announced Nashville will move back into a modified version of Phase Two of the city’s road to reopening plan. “Beginning Friday, July 3rd, and for the next several weeks at least, Nashville will revert to a ‘Phase 2 with modifications’

19 things you should NOT put in your Nashville curbside recycling bins

A free webinar provides a lot of information about recycling in Nashville. "The biggest takeaway is when in doubt, throw it out," said Waste Reduction Program Specialist Jenn Harrman, who leads the Public Works webinar.

Construction complete on Interstate 440, largest project in TDOT history

Good news for some 100,000 drivers that commute on Interstate 440 every day. Construction is finally complete. Although it seemed like a lengthy project, they are actually a month ahead of schedule.

Learn how to recognize, report and prevent elder abuse

June 15 is designated as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Most of us are aware of child and domestic abuse, but did you know that elder abuse and exploitation is a growing and under-reported problem? The shocking truth is that in the majority of elder abu...

Keenan not Seeking Reelection, Thanks Community for Eight Years of Service

Mayor Perry Keenan of Pleasant View has announced that he will not be running for a third term as Pleasant View Mayor.

Nashville Area Chamber and GNRC Release 2019 Vital Signs

Our region is recognized for our economic vitality and quality of life. Nashville Region’s Vital Signs is a collaborative process led by the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce that allows us to identify what’s working and forecast emer...

Murfreesboro gets $1.4 million grant to keep Rover bus operations intact

The city of Murfreesboro has been awarded a $1.4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to keep Rover buses rolling as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.

Spurred by coronavirus, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee pledges to cover telehealth from now on

The largest insurer in the state will make telehealth services a permanent part of their coverage. BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee is the first insurance company in the state to make the switch.

Arts Build Communities (ABC) Grant Applications Now Open

ARTS BUILD COMMUNITIES (ABC) GRANT APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN

The ABC grant program is designed to provide support for arts projects that broaden access to art experiences, and enhance our communities through cultural art. The Greater Nashville Regional Council...

2020 Census Day: What you need to know about the 2020 census

By now, households across the U.S. should have received an invitation in the mail to complete the 2020 census. April 1 is Census Day -- a day meant to remind people to fill out their census as soon as possible. Go to www.2020census.gov

GNRC Offices Open, March Board Meetings Canceled

For more information about the Executive Board, including meeting materials and future dates, please visit:

www.gnrc.org/232/Executive-Board

For information about the Transportation Policy Board, please visit:

www.gnrc.org/324/Transportation-Policy-Bo...

Williamson planning commission casts final approval for Williamson 2040 land use plan

The Williamson County Regional Planning Commission voted, 9-2, to approve the Williamson 2040 Land Use Plan, following nearly two hours of public comments.

GNRC Main Office Open - Limited Phone Service

Power has been restored to our main office and we are open. We have limited phone service but are able to support our Information and Assistance Hotline.

Mayor Jason Cole, La Vergne, highlights jobs in state of city

In his state of the city report, Mayor Jason Cole said more than 500 new jobs have been created in the past year. The city's growing white-collar jobs blend well with the established blue-collar workforce, officials said.

GNRC Offices Operating at Limited Capacity

Due to the recent storm damage, we are not able to perform all business functions. For more information please call 615-862-8855

After one year of work on I-440, TDOT officials say progress is on budget and on time

Tennessee Department of Transportation officials said a lot of progress has been made in the year since crews broke ground on the massive I-440 construction project. It is scheduled to be completed in August, 2020

Nashville has second-hottest job market in US

Nashville's job market is hotter than ever before, according to a new ranking released by Wall Street Journal that put Music City as the second-hottest job market in the Country. Nashville rose to the No. 2 spot from the year before.

Nashville's population explosion has abruptly slowed, as newcomers settle elsewhere in the region

The population in Nashville grew faster than any other region of the state that has made it one of America's fastest-growing cities since 2012. But, newcomers, drawn by a fast-growing job market, are increasingly settling just outside Davidson County.

Spirit Airlines to bring operations center, 345 jobs to Williamson County

Spirit Airlines announced Thursday afternoon it would move its operations control center to Williamson County. The company will make the move from Florida.

Across Tennessee, affordable housing is becoming harder to find

A new statewide housing market report underscores the increasing scarcity of affordable homes and apartments in Tennessee. Home prices grew 7.2%, compared to 5% nationwide.

Nashville wage growth outpaces peer cities, takes top U.S. spot in survey

Nashville-area median wages grew faster than all U.S. metros in the last quarter of 2019, beating out rising tech hubs Dallas, Austin and Miami, a PayScale.com survey found. The region saw 4.7% wage growth.

One of Brentwood's last farms could become a new park

A farm off Old Smyrna Road could become Brentwood's next park. The land is at 9135 Old Smyrna Road. Brentwood city leaders in early February proposed acquiring approximately 52 acres of the property for a total of $5.2 million.

What to Do About Nashville’s Growing Trash Problem

Really, it’s astounding to think about.

Every day, before the first rays of the sun tickle the eastern edges of the county, scores of trucks rumble to a start and fan across the county, dutifully picking up canfuls of refuse. On a rotating schedu...

As Williamson building permits spike, vote on density approaches

Growth is gaining momentum, and as county Planning Director Mike Matteson says, the unincorporated county has reached "a fork in the road." In 2019, Williamson Co. saw the largest spike in new building permits in the unincorporated areas since the 1990s.

Work begins on long-awaited downtown bike lane, but hurdles remain

Downtown's long-awaited bike lane project is moving ahead, after facing nearly a year of delays. Construction has begun on a bike lane along Commerce Street, between Ninth and Second avenues.

Rural development patterns, growth boundaries could change as county manages growth

Wednesday morning, as Williamson County and city of Franklin leaders gathered for a meeting on land use, they heard a message contrary to the nervous narrative of 2019: a 150% population increase by 2040 is not inevitable.

GNRC Mayors Declare 2020 The Year of Transportation

The mayors of the Greater Nashville Regional Council (GNRC) today declared 2020 the Year of Transportation for the region, calling for a sense of urgency among fellow policymakers and the public to address traffic congestion and infrastructure challenges....

Bike Walk Brentwood shows support for upcoming bike lane study on Granny White Pike

City commissioners discussed at Monday’s meeting involved the upcoming repaving and re-striping of Granny White Pike, with the option of adding bike lanes.

Mayors gather at Breakfast with the Mayors to talk about their communities, especially growth

The theme of Tuesday morning’s first Breakfast with the Mayors of 2020 could be boiled down to five words: growth, growth and more growth.

Cherry Lane extension to I-840 'most important project' for Murfreesboro roads, official says

According to Chris Griffith, the executive director of the city's Public Works Division the Cherry Lane extension to I-840 is the most important project we have on the books now.

Report: 2018 transit plan failed due to rushed, insular planning and other things

A report by a New York transit group shows that multiple factors contributed to the failure of Metro's transit plan in 2018. The report , conducted by TransitCenter, says, three main things contributed to the plan's failure.

City enters next phase of 25-year growth plan

The City of Gallatin has announced the next phase in creating a plan for the management of growth over the next 25 years. The final public exercise involves discussing potential scenarios of growth, and examining the impact on the city.

Study shows regional approach possible for transit

Can working with neighboring counties be the way forward for transit in Nashville? A recently published new study Moving Forward, a policy group founded by the Chamber of Commerce, suggests so.

Gallatin receives $96K grant for economic development

Gallatin will receive nearly $100,000 from the state to help with economic development efforts at the city’s industrial park off Airport Road.

La Vergne saves $150,000 with fire truck master mechanics

A pair of master mechanics in La Vergne's public works department saved the city more than $150,000 by becoming qualified to perform maintenance and repair on the La Vergne fire trucks.

Growth is 'getting serious': County mayor urges commissioners to make wise land use decisions

Williamson County Mayor Rogers Anderson warned commissioners about the seriousness of future county overgrowth. The county is in the process of reviewing and updating its Land Use Plan for adoption this year.

Spring Hill awarded $3,000 grant from governor's office for Healthier Spring Hill initiative

Just ahead of the launch of the annual Mayor's Fitness Challenge on Monday, the city of Spring Hill has been awarded a $3,000 grant from the Governor's Foundation for Health and Wellness (GFHW) for its strides in its Healthier Spring Hill initiative.

Murfreesboro's Rucker Lane widening project off busy Franklin Road will start in 2020

The long-awaited Rucker Lane widening project should start this summer on the west side of Murfreesboro. The two-lane road currently has more than 300 houses along a portion of the route.

Wilson County attaches sales tax vote to teachers

An increase in salary for the county’s classroom teachers could happen if the public votes to approve a sales tax increase of one-half cent at the March 3 primary election. That would bring the total of the sales tax to 9.75 percent.

As Kroger eyes expansion, city considers tax relief

The Lebanon City Council is considering tax relief for the local Kroger as it sets its sights on expansion. During the council's work session Thursday, members discussed the company's request from both the city and county for tax incentives.

Dickson Co. OKs hold on urban rezoning, planning underway

Future rezoning of land in Dickson County for more densely-populated, urban-style residential areas will be discussed by county officials in the comings months with a focus on ensuring utilities can meet the demand.

Amazon bought another Nashville warehouse for maybe a grocery

ICYMI: Amazon.com's latest Nashville real-estate purchase is a 200,000-square-foot South Nashville warehouse at 2960 Armory Drive that has long been used for grocery operations.

The office of the Mayor announces public listening sessions for Metro transportation plan

The Mayor’s Office announced a series of public listening sessions scheduled throughout Nashville and Davidson County to gather community input on Metro’s transportation planning priorities.

$350M development poised to sprout near GM plant

Nashville developer SR Residential Partners paid $12 million cash on Dec. 11 for a 103-acre property from the TN Children's Home in Spring Hill. Maury County's population has grown 17% since 2010, to almost 100,000 residents.

Study: Tennessee population to grow by over 1 million by 2040, half in midstate

According to the 2018-2070 projections released by the Boyd Center, Tennessee's population will grow from 6.77 million in 2018 to 7.84 million in 2040. By 2070, that number will swell to 9.35 million.

Where Nashville ranks in the worst US cities for drivers

The area encompassing Music City, Franklin and Murfreesboro has landed on a list of the worst U.S. cities for drivers at number 39.

Development including housing, office, retail space slated for North Nashville

North Nashville will be the new location of a new development that includes apartments, townhouses, office and retail space, a development group announced Wednesday. It will be located along Trinity Lane near the intersection of I-24 and I-65

Amazon buys land for mammoth 1,200-job hub

Amazon has bought land in Wilson County for an immense distribution hub that will more than double its regional footprint. The hulking facility would create about 1,200 jobs .

How Nashville commuting cost compares to other major US cities

A recent study by Clever analyzed the 50 most populous U.S. metros based on their annual cost to commute by driving. Nashville drivers spend $7,774 annually to commute, according to the study. That's roughly 20% higher than the national average.

9% of Ashland City voters have cast ballots so far. What to know for the municipal election

It’s almost time for Ashland City residents to elect a mayor and council representatives.Saturday's municipal election is days away and 259 voted early. That accounts for about 9% of the 2,853 active registered voters.

Franklin aldermen cool to the idea of e scooters in city limits, citing negative input

A proposal to implement a pilot program that would allow scooters in the Franklin city limits of Cool Springs got little to no traction after it was presented to aldermen during Tuesday’s Board of Mayor and Aldermen work session.

TDOT Receives $16 Million Federal Transit Grant

he TDOT has been awarded a $16.2 million grant for Buses and Bus Facilities by the U.S. Department of Transportation. TDOT applied for the grant on behalf of 10 transit agencies

What to know about REAL ID and why you might need one soon

In 2005, Congress passed what is called the REAL ID Act which requires that anyone who wants to use federal facilities, such as flying on a commercial airplane have a REAL ID by Oct. 2020. For more info go to tn.gov/tnrealid

Mitsubishi North America announces permanent headquarters in Franklin

Mitsubishi on Tuesday revealed the location of its permanent North American headquarters in Franklin, months after the Japanese automaker announced a move from California to Tennessee. The building is located at 4015 Aspen Grove Drive.

Lyft removing fleet of scooters from Nashville this month, company says

Lyft is removing its fleet of scooters from Nashville this month, the company confirmed Thursday night. In a statement, a Lyft spokesperson said the company would "end scooter operations" on Nov. 22.

Nashville mayor, new director of transportation ride bus to better understand system

many residents who have said traffic is their number one problem with Nashville.
It’s no secret Nashville’s growth has clogged our interstates and streets.

Big Projects, Bigger Commutes

Nashville’s construction boom isn’t only changing the city’s skyline: It’s snarling your commute.

Rutherford County officials want growth paying for roads to avoid property tax hike

A real estate transfer fee instead of another property tax hike ought be considered to fund road improvements, an official suggested Tuesday.

DMV: Prepare for long waits to get REAL ID before October 2020

If you haven't recently been to a Driver Services Center (Tennessee's version of the DMV), chances are you'll be headed there soon, and state officials say you should prepare for a wait that could last several hours.

New approach to preserving affordable Nashville homes will target Bordeaux

Rebuilding Together, a Nashville nonprofit affordable housing preservation organization, announced Wednesday that it will spend the next two years renovating aging homes and improving community areas in the Bordeaux enclave of North Nashville.

Project Sam: Mt. Juliet approves development linked to Amazon

Mt. Juliet commissioners approved plans to build a 3.6 million square foot facility believed to be an Amazon fulfillment center on Monday.

Research and Resources For a Greying America

Meharry Medical College hosted the 33rd Middle Tennessee Geriatric Conference last week. Medical practitioners, researchers, hospital administrators, and representatives from several non-profits attended the conference.

Gallatin Chamber announces inaugural class of Leadership Gallatin

The Gallatin Chamber of Commerce has announced the inaugural class of Leadership Gallatin. The new leadership development program will consist of 24 members.

Nashville leads the nation in hotel growth. But how many more hotels can the economy support?

Nashville leads the nation's 25 largest metros in hotel industry growth this year, according to global hospitality data analytics firm STR. All signs point to continued growth.

Mayor: Gallatin ‘growing too rapidly,’ still has ‘bright’ future

While admitting that Gallatin is growing too rapidly, Mayor Paige Brown said during her annual State of the City address that the city remains in an “extremely good” position.

Agero to add 275 jobs at Clarksville call center

Agero Clarksville's call center in the Clarksville-Montgomery County Corporate Business Park is adding 275 jobs, representing a 42% increase in the site's employment base, the company confirmed.

Special committee aims to bring more sidewalks to Nashville

After more than a dozen pedestrian deaths so far this year, the Metro Council is taking a new approach to try to increase the number of sidewalks in Davidson County.

Medicare's Open Enrollment Period is Here

Fall Open Enrollment is the time of year when you can change your Medicare coverage. You can:

Join a new Medicare Advantage Plan or stand-alone prescription drug plan (Part D) plan Switch between Original Medicare with or without a Part D plan and Medicare...

Belmont University will host 2020 presidential debate

Belmont University will host one of the presidential debates ahead of the 2020 election, according to the Tennessean. Belmont will host the third and final debate on October 22, 2020 in the Curb Event Center.

Mayor Cooper names new Transportation & Infrastructure Adviser

Faye DiMassimo will join Cooper's staff as senior adviser of transportation and infrastructure.

How Nashville's cost of living compares to biggest US cities (Analysis)

A recent analysis breaks down the cost of living for the largest cities in the U.S. Nashville ranked #23 out of the 50 listed.

Free buses cut as part of WeGo Public Transit system restructuring

Big changes are now in effect to the WeGo Public Transit system to address the agency's $8.7-million budget shortfall. There's route changes, eliminations, and fare increases. Go to their website for more information http://ride.nashvillemta.org/

Nashville's boom is great — but not equitable, business leaders say at annual Chamber meeting

Hundreds of business leaders gathered on Thursday morning to reflect on how to alter the march of the region's meteoric growth so that it benefits more people, at the annual Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce meeting.

Nashville rents 8th-fastest growing among nation's largest cities per report

The Nashville rental market is the 8th-fastest growing in the U. S. among the nation's largest cities according to ApartmentList's October report. The rent in Music City is up 2. 7% compared to the national average of 11.3%.

Nashville traffic woes continue: I-24 in downtown loop to close this weekend for bridge repairs

From Fri, 9/27 at 9PM thru Mon, 9/30 at 5AM, I-24 will be CLOSED on the east side of the downtown loop from I-40 at the Silliman Evans Bridge to I-65 to repair bridge joints at the Woodland St, Main St, and Silliman Evans bridges. PLAN AHEAD.

1,000 jobs among new details revealed as Mt. Juliet's Project Sam takes step toward approval

A massive 3.6 million square foot industrial building proposed in Mt. Juliet with a code name Project Sam could bring more than 1,000 jobs, new details emerging through the approval process reveal.

I-65, 440 interchange closure expected to cause traffic backup

Construction is expected to cause a lot of traffic trouble this weekend at the Interstate 65 and Interstate 440 interchange. The interchange is closing Friday at 9 p.m. The work will also close Franklin Pike from Berry Road to Woodmont Boulevard.

Over the last 10 years Williamson County has become a magnet for corporate headquarters

Williamson County’s economy has expanded rapidly over the last 10 years, and has also become a magnet for corporate headquarters. The unemployment rate is around 3.2 percent and a growing list of companies have followed Nissan to Cool Springs.

New payment system, upgrades coming to WeGo Star

The WeGo Star has announced several upgrades to its commuter train service that brings people into downtown Nashville.

Clarksville tops "Best Places To Live" list

Money.com has published it's annual list of the Best Places to Live in America, and one Middle Tennessee city tops the list! This year Clarksville was named Money's Best Places to Live in America.

Smyrna Town Council approves zoning for $50 million apartment complex

The Smyrna Town Council approved a proposed 308 apartment complex in the town's historic area of South Lowry Street. The development will attract people to living in downtown in the historic downtown, the Mayor Mary Esther Reed said.

Requests sought for Spring Hill’s neighborhood sidewalk program

Now is the time to let city leaders know if your neighborhood wishes to have a sidewalk connecting your community to the places like parks, schools and local retail areas. The deadline to submit ideas for sidewalk projects is Oct. 31.

Clarksville in the midst of dramatic change

Clarksville has become a place where more people want to live and do business. It is the fifth-fastest growing city in the country according to the Clarksville Chamber of Commerce. It’s also the fifth largest city in Tennessee.

Clarksville receives $1.82M grant for pedestrian bridge

TDOT has announced a $1.82 million federal grant for Clarksville’s construction of a pedestrian bridge to complete a 10-mile hiking and biking trail linking the city’s downtown riverfront with the northeastern part of the city.

Thompson’s Station adopts new Major Thoroughfare Plan, putting Columbia Pike widening project on hor

The Thompson’s Station Planning Commission voted 4 – 1 Tuesday night to adopt its new Major Thoroughfare Plan, putting the Columbia Pike widening project on the forefront of the town’s priority list.

TMA Group announces board officers

The TMA Group (Transportation Management Association) has elected officers of the 2019-20 TMA Board of Directors. The officers include: Chairman: Glenn McGehee, Vice-Chair: Rogers Anderson, Treasurer: Mark Robbins, Secretary: Cyril Stewart

Franklin Transit to suspend services on Labor Day

In observance of Labor Day on Monday, Sept. 2, the Franklin Transit Authority has announced all Franklin Transit services, fixed routes and TODD, will not run any routes. All regularly scheduled routes will resume Tuesday morning, Sept. 3.

Cheatham Commissioners rescind impact fee hike amid push-back

Following push-back and hours of discussion with stakeholders, Cheatham County officials did away with a June resolution that significantly raised the growing county’s impact fee on residential developments in favor of smaller increases over time.

TDOT construction project will modify and reconstruct existing ramps in Antioch

TDOT officials plan to close the I-24 Westbound Hickory Hollow Parkway exit on September 3rd. This comes as work to modify and reconstruct existing ramps and roads in the area continues.

42 road projects among $780.8 million Murfreesboro capital improvement plans

A $780.8 million Murfreesboro capital improvement plan includes $41.5 million to build a future school. In addition to school funding, much of the improvement plan shows 42 transportation projects.

Gallatin buys land in multi-million dollar project to keep it from developers, slow growth

As Gallatin experiences rapid growth, leaders are hoping to protect pieces of the city from development. Over the last year, the city has bought three plots of land that add up to nearly 70 acres.

Sumner County approves 17% property tax increase, $4,000 school employee raise

Sumner County Commissioners approved a 34 cent increase per $100 of taxable property, in part to give school employees a $4,000 raise, The certified tax rate was $1.9284 and the new rate is $2.262.

Women's Right to Vote: Nashville commemorates 19th Amendment with yearlong celebration

On Aug. 18, 1920 the Tennessee General Assembly voted to approve women's suffrage thus becoming the 36th and final state needed to ratify the amendment to the U.S. Constitution. On Aug. 26, 1920, all women across the country were given the right to vote.

Report finds increase in people spending 90 minutes or more commuting to work

A report from ApartmentList states that workers commuting 90 minutes or more each way to work grew by 32% from 2005-2017. Dubbed "super commuters, those traveling 90 minutes or more were three times the 9% of those with commutes under 90 minutes.

Year-long Centennial Park redesign to start this week

A year-long project to redesign parts of Centennial Park will begin this week, according to Metro Parks officials. This will be Phase Two of the Centennial Park redesign. Pedestrians will see a lot of the improvements.

Visitors to Sumner County spent more than $157 million in 2018

Visitor spending has significantly increased in Sumner County, a report from the Tennessee Department of Tourism Development states. Sumner County saw a 6.3% increase in visitor spending last year, jumping from $148.63M in 2017 to $157.99M in 2018.

South Corridor Study enters round two of public input

Commuters stretching from Davidson to Maury counties are one step closer to finding relief on the roads. The possible solution could come from the South Corridor Study. The GNRC, TDOT, and WeGo Public Transit are all behind the study.

Record tourism visits brings in additional $16M to Rutherford County

Tourism-related spending in Rutherford Co. in 2018 increased from $351M to $367M, placing Rutherford County in the top 10 counties across the state for travel-related expenditures. There was an increase of 230,000 visitors in 2018 from the previous year.

South Corridor Study moves into evaluation phase, reveals survey results at FrankTalks

Franklin Tomorrow’s FrankTalks Monday morning featured an update on the South Corridor Study — a project dedicated to surveying Davidson, Williamson and Maury counties to provide public transportation solutions to the ever-growing area.

I-440 over I-65 interchange to be closed September 20-23 for I-440 restoration project

The I-440 reconstruction project will soon reach a major milestone, TDOT announced Friday. Phase II of the project is set to begin in the days ahead. As this second phase of the $152.9 million project begins, a significant traffic shift is expected.

Ashland City was incorporated 160 years ago.

Ashland City, a small town of more than 5,000 residents along the Cumberland River between booming Nashville and Clarksville, is turning 160 years old this year.

$1.2 million secured for barriers on Natchez Trace Bridge, construction expected to begin 2023

The first steps to implement barriers along the 1,572 foot bridge are now underway, with $1.2 million being secured for the preliminary phase of its design from the Federal Highway Administration (FHA).

Walk Bike Nashville says first seven months of 2019 deadliest for pedestrians

The first seven months of 2019 have been the most-deadly for Nashville pedestrians according to Walk Bike Nashville. As of August 1, 15 people have been killed walking in Music City.

Lebanon increases property tax despite last-minute proposal

Lebanon residents will face a property tax increase next year. The increase will raise the city’s property tax rate from 60.75 cents to 85.75 cents per $100 of assessed value.

Cheatham County seeing rapid growth, development as a result of midstate boom

In 2018 alone, seven projects in Cheatham County created 750 new jobs, bringing $94 million in capital investments. With nine projects in the works already, 2019 is set to exceed that.

I-24 downtown to close this weekend for bridge repairs

A major interstate closure downtown will affect any weekend plans in Nashville starting Friday night. Expect heavy delays as many drivers will need to find different routes to get where they're going.

Lebanon hires city traffic engineer

The City of Lebanon has hired Kristen Rice as the City's Transportation/Traffic Engineer. Rice has more than 11 years of project management in transportation and traffic engineering.

On track: How a big development is impacting Nashville's transit ridership

It's been 10 months since the Music City Star's seventh stop opened inside the massive mixed-use development Hamilton Springs in Lebanon. So far, the station has seen steady ridership growth, while the development continues to attract residents.

Lebanon hopes to build business momentum, improve safety with town square project

Lebanon approved another set of upgrades to its town square that officials and local business owners hope will build momentum generated by several business openings and improve safety.

'All about the money': Murfreesboro residents irritated by heavy industrial zoning plan

A unanimous council, however, supported the heavy industrial zoning request from Developer Brian Berryman in the first of two required votes for approval for property off Elam Road between Rutherford Boulevard and Interstate 24.

Who pays for Murfreesboro's growth? City leaders weigh the benefits of impact fees on development

Property tax hikes in Murfreesboro and Rutherford County may be less burdensome in future years if more revenue can be generated through impact fees on development, advocates say.

Clarksville is in the youngest county in Tennessee. What makes it a magnet for millennials?

Montgomery is the youngest county in Tennessee, according to USA TODAY. The county has a median age of 30.5, in comparison to the state's 38.6. With a population of over 190,000, 27% of the population is under 18, versus 22.7% statewide.

Hendersonville officials work to correct issues with garbage, limb and brush collection

Delays in trash pickup. Delays in limb pickup. Confusion over yard waste pickup. Hendersonville residents have been knee-deep in the mess this summer, due to a transition period with the city's new waste collector and the summer's heavy storms.

Nashville's mayoral race is in the final stretch. Here's why each candidate wants your vote.

Three major mayoral candidates are challenging Mayor David Briley in his run for reelection for his first full term. A sitting mayor has never lost a reelection bid in the history of Nashville's Metro government.

State of the County address outlines Williamson County’s successes and challenges

At the annual State of the County Wednesday, Williamson County Mayor Rogers Anderson outlined the county’s achievements in the past year, as well as one thing the county might improve on.

Franklin Tomorrow presents Mayor Anderson with Legacy Award

Franklin Tomorrow hosted its annual Exemplary Community Volunteer Awards on Wednesday. A highlight of the evening was Williamson County Mayor Rogers Anderson receiving the Charles M. Sargent Legacy Award.

Downtown Nashville could swell to 95,000 employees, increasing demand for space

In 2015, there were 57,230 employees in downtown Nashville. Last year, that number swelled to 72,000 employees. By 2022/2023, there could be as many as 95,000 employees downtown.

Mt. Juliet road updates: Central Pike interchange, traffic lights and sidewalks

Mt. Juliet's mayor has signed an agreement between the city and Tennessee Department of Transportation to move forward on the environmental phase of a new interchange at Central Pike and Interstate 40.

Williamson Co. tourism numbers grow to 1.7 million visitors

The Williamson County Convention and Visitors Bureau leadership announced it welcomed 1.72 million guests in 2018.

Mack Hatcher extension on schedule to open November 2021

Since the start of construction in late 2018, around 120 employees have worked on the job site. The 3.2 mile extension is a product of the IMPROVE Act, put in place by former Gov. Bill Haslam to better the state's infrastructure.

Cheatham County's proposed budget includes 6% tax increase. Here are some other key takeaways

Cheatham County officials are considering a 2019-2020 fiscal year budget with a more-than 6% tax increase proposed.

Nashville’s cost of living outpaces Atlanta and Charlotte, study finds

Nashville clocked in at No. 53 in a ranking of the 75 most populous U.S. cities based on monthly cost of living. The study, undertaken by moving research company Move.org, ranked the cities from least to most expensive.

Spring Hill downtown development projected to generate $100 million in revenue for city over 20 yrs

At a public meeting Thursday night, members of the Spring Hill community and representatives from Catalyst Design Group discussed possible revenue that will be generated by the redeveloped Tennessee Children’s Home.

As 'plastic-free' movement grows, package-free shop opens up in East Nashville

The Good Fill opened its doors on Wednesday, offering customers a unique, package-free store that's unique in the mid-state.

New director of Conexion Americas has been fighting for immigrants all her life

Ospina Cano — who starts her job as new executive director of Nashville Latin community center Conexion Americas Monday — has been working to give immigrants a smoother transition to the U.S.

More younger people forced to step into caregiver role amid earlier Alzheimer's diagnoses

More than five million Americans have Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, but the number is projected to rise to nearly 14 million people by 2050, according to the Alzheimer’s Association

Cheatham officials approve $4.2 million in schools capital projects funding

Hendersonville residents will likely see a tax increase. But will they pay more money?

With Mayor Jamie Clary's proposed budget, Hendersonville residents will see a property tax increase in the next fiscal year.

Fairview manager: City must ‘embrace residential growth’ to sustain services

White House votes to borrow $10M for City Hall, Community Center

White House city leaders are poised to close on a $10 million loan in the next 30-45 days that will fund the demolition of the city’s current city hall and replace it with a new, three-story community center that will include an events space, se...

Blackburn’s Nashville office will open Mar. 1

Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) announced on Tuesday that her Nashville office will open at 3322 West End Avenue, Suite 610 on March 1.
It will be the sixth and final office the Senator will open in Tennessee.

Historic Ferguson Hall proposed to become a hotel as part of development

A new mixed-use development project consisting 102 acres worth of retail, office, restaurant, hotel, residential and assisted-living space, all proposed to be built on Main Street, was discussed Monday night during the Spring Hill Planning Commission&...

Here's where Nashvillians ride transit — and where they still won't

To juice ridership, Steve Bland, CEO of WeGo Public Transit, wants his team to keep a "high focus on frequency and expanding service as funds become available."

Gallatin joins other Middle Tennessee cities in seeking solutions to landfills reaching capacity

In an annual report released the end of January, the Gallatin Department of Public Works announced its annual figures on solid-waste collection and recycling, which show increases across most categories.

Williamson County School starts program for students with disabilities and their siblings

Next year, St. Matthew, off Sneed Road in the Temple Hills community, will be the first private school in Williamson County to offer this type of program. With the Hand-In-Hand program, families in Williamson County now have a choice for keeping students ...

New and expanding businesses add 420-plus jobs in Gallatin

With two companies moving to Gallatin and four more expanding, more than 420 additional jobs are expected to be created, according to a release from the Gallatin Economic Development Agency.

Hendersonville Senior Center Director among nominees for Chamber award

26 women nominated for 'Impacting the Community' awards from Hendersonville Chamber.