Metro officials are seeking input from community members, fairgrounds neighbors and the like for a new fairgrounds master plan. They are entering into the process of designing a long-discussed state fairgrounds master plan and are working with an outside consulting firm throughout the process. They desire your input, though.
On July 23rd and 5 p.m., a Fairgrounds Master Plan “open house” is set to occur in the Sonny West Conference Room at the Howard Office Building on Second Ave. Metro officials and consultants from Minnesota based CSL International are ready to hear comments and suggestions from fairgrounds neighbors, community members and stakeholders regarding the new master plan.
The purpose of this initial phase is to develop criteria for the Tennessee State Fairgrounds and associated year-round-use venues. Through their study, officials hope to grasp an understanding of the best practices and uses for facilities, the current and future market demand, the costs and benefits and the site impact if the model were to be located on the existing 117-acre premises off Wedgewood Ave. or be located on an unidentifiable greenfield space.
Proceeding the initial phase, a second phase will enter the exploration of how to best maximize value to Metro and its citizens. Metro hopes their consultants will be able to consider the long-term economic value of the property and all of the facets that go along with that including, “economic viability and livability of surrounding areas and historic, cultural, recreational, and economic value associated with existing uses on the property,” according to Metro’s request for proposals. The second phase will also including drafting of a recommended master plan for adoption by Music City.
Metro’s creation of fairgrounds master plan is mandated as a result of the Metro Council’s February 2011 passage of legislation that at the time foiled Mayor Karl Dean’s attempt to redevelop the city-owned fairgrounds. By a narrow vote, the council defeated plans to demolish the fairgrounds’ racetrack and while also setting the course for a fairgrounds master plan to help dictate the future of the site.
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