Sharon Hurt spoke for Jefferson Street United Merchants Partnership (JUMP) saying for years North Nashville has needed just the kind of economic influx the proposed ballpark would provide. (Credit WPLN/ Daniel Potter)
The plan for a new ballpark near downtown Nashville got the blessing today of a panel of top Tennessee officials. As part of the fast-moving deal, the state is trading some land with the city, which is also giving it millions of dollars to build two new parking garages.
Speaking on behalf of North Nashville businesses and residents who she says felt overlooked for decades, Sharon Hurt praised the deal for bringing badly needed jobs.
“I’m excited about it. It’s been a long time coming for us to get some development on Jefferson Street, and this brings an opportunity that’s never been presented before, and I think the timing of it is just awesome.”
Only five people spoke at the public hearing, all in support of the stadium. Beforehand, some skeptics took issue with holding the meeting in the thick of holiday travel season. When asked about it, Metro Councilman Ronnie Steine fired back, “Most of our colleagues that are skeptical about this are the ones that, frankly, don’t do their homework.”
Steine argues people will still have other chances to comment, like at another public meeting with council members set for Saturday:
November 30, from 9 to 11 a.m.
Goodwill Industries, 1015 Herman Street.
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