A group of Second Avenue property owners are no longer seeking to tear down a string of buildings that were destroyed in the Christmas Day bombing. H.I. Development Corporation now wants to restore its damaged properties into something that will maintain the culture of the community.
The new plan includes using four buildings — 170, 172, 174 and 176 Second Avenue North — between Church and Commerce streets to create a lively pedestrian experience. The project is more in line with the ideas being discussed by some community members.
Project architect Dave Johnston says his clients are hotel developers who are interested in developing a space that will connect First and Second avenues.
“There will be steps,” he adds. “We want to see green areas and sunlight — and sidewalk cafes and areas that are truly a destination experience.”
Last summer, the owners sought demolition permits for the properties, but they have since withdrawn that request. The group is now seeking a selective demolition permit to remove portions of the buildings that are structurally compromised.
“Our intention is to take those down and rebuild them exactly as they exist,” Johnston says.
The owners say they were motivated to change course after speaking with residents who wanted to keep the area historic.
In a letter to the Metro Historic Zoning Commission, Andre Callen and Heather Coleman, who represent property owner, say, “We have been inspired in our thinking by the discussions we have had with our neighbors on Second Avenue, city leaders and people who care deeply about Nashville’s historic buildings.”
Last December, a total of 65 buildings were affected by the downtown bombing. Nineteen of those are under construction for cosmetic repairs. Ten are considered badly damaged.
On Air - 90.3 WPLN-FM