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Planning Commission | Merritt and Martin Meeting Recap | June 12th


June 12, 2025

Meeting Overview

The Metro Planning Commission convened for a pivotal public hearing regarding a complex rezoning proposal by SomeraRoad to develop properties at the intersection of Martin Street, Merritt Avenue, and Hamilton Avenue in the heart of Wedgewood Houston. This mixed-use development proposal, which has been under community review for nearly two years, represents a significant investment in the neighborhood's infrastructure and housing stock, featuring both hotel and residential components that would transform the current industrial-zoned properties.

The meeting drew substantial community interest, with residents, business owners, and stakeholders gathering to provide input on a project that has generated both strong support and pointed opposition. The hearing took place against the backdrop of Nashville's ongoing growth and development pressures, with Wedgewood Houston emerging as a key area for transit-oriented development and neighborhood revitalization.


Staff Recommendation

Planning Department Recommendation: APPROVAL with conditions

The Planning Department staff reviewed the project against established land use policies and planning principles, recommending approval based on:

  • Alignment with the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) guidance

  • Consistency with area land use policy

  • Proposed infrastructure investments

  • Extensive community engagement process over two years



Public Comments

Speakers in Support (7 speakers)

Ken Pontic (1704 Martin Street)

  • Emphasized critical need for sidewalk installation along Martin Street and Merritt Avenue

  • Highlighted pedestrian safety concerns and dangerous walking conditions

  • Referenced recent pedestrian fatality in the area

  • Stressed importance of proper crosswalks

Earnest Morgan (Merritt Avenue)

  • Noted two+ years of developer collaboration with the community

  • Highlighted community petition with 90 resident signatures supporting the project

Jonathan Ruff (Little Hamilton)

  • Expressed support for the development approach

  • Noted benefits of moving street parking into the development site to improve traffic flow

Sister Spirit (KK) (Hamilton)

  • Advocated for economic housing options for healthcare workers and community members

  • Praised Samara Road for extensive community engagement

  • Emphasized the need for affordable housing in the area

Alexander Janco (601 Merritt Street)

  • Commercial property owner supporting the project

  • Focused on safety benefits and infrastructure improvements

  • Noted potential WeGo transit stop benefits

Greg Watson (607 A More Avenue)

  • Highlighted design quality and business sustainability aspects

  • Emphasized the development's role in maintaining neighborhood character while allowing appropriate growth

Dwayne Cuthbertson (409 Merritt Avenue)

  • Focused on process and policy compliance

  • Noted that two-thirds of letters received by Planning Commissioners support the project

  • Emphasized the importance of reviewing against established policy rather than subjective preferences

Speakers with Concerns/Opposition (3 speakers)

Thomas Ross (1405 Pillow Street)

  • Adjacent resident with tenant compliance concerns regarding existing gym tenant (BC Block)

  • Reported ongoing noise violations since February

  • Expressed concerns about developer's ability to ensure tenant compliance

  • Also emphasized need for street safety improvements

  • Noted issues with construction debris and property maintenance

Vince (600 block Hamilton)

  • Requested proper community discourse and project deferral

  • Called for additional community meetings to review final submitted plans

  • Emphasized that residents closest to development should have stronger voice

Resident (542 Hamilton)

  • Expressed traffic concerns and questions about developer performance

  • Noted that residents on Hamilton Street rely on alley access

  • Concerned about increased traffic impact

  • Asked about coordination with MDOT (state transportation authorities)

Council Member Input

Metro Council Member Terry Vo appeared at the meeting to formally request a deferral, citing three main concerns:

  1. Community Input: Need for more direct input from residents closest to the site, noting that five immediate neighbors were unable to attend due to work commitments

  2. Hotel Size: Disagreement over proposed hotel size, requesting reduction to 125 keys versus developer's economic requirement for 150+ keys for viability

  3. Parking: Request for additional parking spaces beyond what the developer proposed


Planning Commission Discussion

Key Points Raised by Commissioners:

Procedural Concerns:

  • Commissioners noted this would be the ninth deferral for the project

  • Expressed frustration with the extended two-year review timeline

  • Questioned what additional information could realistically be gained from further delays

Policy vs. Politics:

  • Emphasized importance of reviewing projects against established planning policy rather than political preferences

  • Noted the difference between technical planning standards and subjective community preferences

  • Highlighted the professional staff recommendation and technical review process

Parking Clarification:

  • Commissioners clarified that the land use requirements for this site do not mandate ANY parking spaces

  • Noted that the developer has voluntarily included parking in the proposal as a community benefit

  • Explained that the developer is "gifting" these parking spaces to the community

Community Engagement Recognition:

  • Acknowledged the extensive two-year community engagement process

  • Noted the developer's multiple plan revisions addressing neighborhood concerns

  • Recognized both private investment and public infrastructure benefits

Tenant Compliance Discussion:

  • Some commissioners expressed concern about making zoning decisions based on current tenant behavior

  • Noted that tenant compliance issues are separate from zoning and development review

  • Emphasized that zoning decisions should focus on land use compatibility, not operational management

Commission Positions:

Commissioners Supporting Deferral:

  • Acknowledged Council Member Vo's request for additional community input

  • Expressed willingness to allow more time for neighborhood dialogue

  • Noted importance of addressing immediate neighbor concerns

Commissioners Questioning Deferral:

  • Emphasized the extensive prior engagement and eight previous deferrals

  • Questioned what substantive new information could be gained

  • Expressed concern about indefinite process delays

  • Noted the professional staff recommendation and policy compliance


Infrastructure Improvements:

  • Proposed sidewalk installation along Martin Street and Merritt Avenue

  • Traffic safety improvements including crosswalks

  • Street parking reorganization to improve traffic flow

  • Potential coordination with Metro transit (WeGo) for bus stop improvements


Community Support Documentation

Quantified Support:

  • Petition: 90 residents have signed supporting the project

  • Planning Commission Letters: Two-thirds of letters received by commissioners support the project

  • Geographic Distribution: Support spans across the broader Wedgewood Houston neighborhood

Participation Challenges:

  • Five residents living immediately adjacent to the Martin and Merritt location were unable to attend due to career demands

  • This may have impacted the apparent balance of local opinion at the meeting

  • Highlights ongoing challenge of ensuring representative community input


Meeting Outcome

After extensive discussion, the Planning Commission voted to DEFER the matter until July 2025, accommodating Council Member Vo's request for additional community dialogue.

Conditions of Deferral:

  • Additional community meeting to be scheduled before July hearing

  • Opportunity for final review of submitted plans

  • Continued dialogue between developer, council member, and immediate neighbors


Key Issues Moving Forward

Unresolved Disputes:

  1. Hotel Size: Core disagreement between 125 keys (council preference) vs. 150+ keys (economic viability requirement)

  2. Parking: Additional parking requests beyond voluntary developer contribution

  3. Immediate Neighbor Input: Ensuring participation from residents closest to the site

  4. Tenant Compliance: Addressing current noise issues and future tenant oversight

Infrastructure Priorities:

  • Sidewalk installation remains highest community priority

  • Traffic safety improvements including crosswalks

  • Coordination with state and metro transportation authorities

  • Environmental protection for native species and cave systems

Process Considerations:

  • Balancing extensive community engagement with reasonable project timelines

  • Maintaining developer economic viability while addressing community concerns

  • Ensuring representative community participation in decision-making


Next Steps

Before July Hearing:

  1. Community Meeting: CM Vo to host additional neighborhood meeting

  2. Plan Review: Final review of submitted development plans

  3. Stakeholder Dialogue: Continued discussion between key parties

  4. Issue Resolution: Attempt to address outstanding concerns

July Planning Commission Meeting:

  • Final vote on rezoning proposal

  • Review of any plan modifications

  • Consideration of additional conditions

  • Final recommendation to Metro Council

If Approved:

  • Referral to Metro Council for final approval

  • Implementation of infrastructure improvements

  • Environmental protection measures

  • Tenant compliance monitoring system


Strategic Context

The meeting highlighted ongoing tensions in Nashville's development review process between:

  • Technical planning standards vs. political preferences

  • Private investment vs. community concerns

  • Economic viability vs. neighborhood character

  • Process efficiency vs. comprehensive community input

The professional staff recommendation for approval, combined with demonstrated community support, suggests strong technical merit for the project. However, political opposition and immediate neighbor concerns continue to influence the review process.

The July hearing will be critical in determining whether the project can move forward with broad community support or whether fundamental disagreements will require significant modifications to the proposal


To learn more about the Merritt & Martin Project, click here.

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Metro Council Member Olivia Hall to Speak at WEHO Social Event.

Tuesday, May 13th at The Flamingo Cocktail Club

WEHO Social is proud to host its May community meeting, featuring two distinguished Metro Council Members: Olivia Hill, Council Member at Large, and Olivia Hall, recently elected representative of District 17. This gathering presents a unique opportunity for residents to engage with city leaders and discuss critical issues affecting Wedgewood Houston and the broader Nashville community.


Event Details:

  • Date: Tuesday, May 13, 2025

  • Time: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM+ (Doors open at 6:00 PM)

  • Location: The Flamingo Cocktail Club

  • Special Requirement: Guests will be required to register at the door, or residents can skip the line by pre-registering.

WEHO Social is a welcoming organization, and all residents are encouraged to attend. Come early, stay late, meet someone new!


Evening Schedule:

  • 6:00 PM: Doors Open & Cocktail Hour – Connect with neighbors while enjoying The Flamingo's signature drinks.

  • 6:30 PM: Welcome & Program Begins – An introduction to the evening's proceedings.

  • 6:40 PM: Guest Speaker Presentations –

    • Council Member Olivia Hill will provide insights into key community issues at a citywide level.

    • Council Member Olivia Hall will discuss the city's new Creative District Initiative, highlighting Wedgewood Houston's role in Nashville's cultural landscape.

  • 7:10 PM: Q&A Session – Residents will have the chance to engage in direct dialogue with both council members.

  • 7:30 PM: Program Adjourns – Guests may continue enjoying The Flamingo's offerings.


Important Notes:

  • Cash Bar Available: Residents are responsible for their own purchases.

  • Food and Beverages: Available at the bar throughout the event.

  • No RSVP Required: All WeHo residents are warmly welcome!

Residents will also receive details about new community resources designed to keep everyone informed and engaged with the latest local developments.

"Wedgewood Houston represents exactly the kind of organically-developed, arts-centered community that Nashville should be supporting and learning from," says Council Member Hall. "I'm looking forward to hearing resident perspectives on how we can better preserve and enhance what makes this neighborhood special."

Council Member Hill added, "As Nashville continues its rapid growth, maintaining the unique character of neighborhoods like WeHo becomes increasingly important. I'm eager to discuss how city-wide policies can support the specific needs of this vibrant community."

WEHO Social extends its deepest gratitude to The Flamingo Cocktail Club, our newest sponsor, for supporting this essential community gathering.


About WEHO Social

WEHO Social is a community organization dedicated to fostering connections among residents of the Wedgewood Houston neighborhood. Through regular meetings, social events, and advocacy efforts, WEHO Social works to maintain the unique character of the neighborhood while addressing the challenges of Nashville's urban growth.

Venue Information

Flamingo is located in the Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood. To access the venue:

  • Arrive at the former church building that houses Falcon Coffee Bar

  • Follow the sidewalk to the right

  • Go through the gate

  • The entrance is located through the rear patio

Parking Information

As a result of neighborhood improvements underway, limited street parking is available. We recommend arriving a few minutes early to secure parking. This said, we encourage attendees to enjoy the spring weather and walk over to The Flamingo Cocktail Club!


Join us in strengthening our neighborhood ties and contributing to a more engaged and informed Wedgewood Houston.

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Wedgewood Village Takes Shape

The Merritt Mansion

NASHVILLE, TN - March 9, 2025 - AJ Capital Partners has now broken ground on each component of the approved Wedgewood Village project, an expansive 18-acre mixed-use development that promises to redefine Nashville's rapidly evolving Wedgewood-Houston (WeHo) neighborhood. The transformative project will deliver more than 1.6 million square feet of premium residential, retail, restaurant, and office space across multiple phases.

Wedgewood Village represents a bold reimagining of urban living in Nashville, combining thoughtfully designed new construction with the adaptive reuse of historic properties. The development will extend across various non-contiguous parcels throughout the neighborhood, creating a cohesive district while preserving WeHo's distinctive character.

"We envision Wedgewood Village as a dynamic ecosystem where residents, workers, and visitors can experience the best of Nashville's creative energy," said Chad DiDonato, WEHO Social spokesperson. "This project builds upon the authentic industrial heritage of Wedgewood-Houston while introducing new spaces for living, working, dining, and entertainment."

The development has already attracted an impressive roster of anchor tenants, including international members club Soho House, the Academy of Country Music, and acclaimed Japanese restaurant Momotaro. Future phases will welcome Pastis, the iconic New York City brasserie making its Nashville debut, along with an unnamed Italian restaurant concept.

Wedgewood Village builds upon AJ Capital's existing WeHo properties, including the historic May Hosiery Mills complex and Nashville Warehouse Company, which houses the Memoir Wedgewood Houston apartment tower. These established locations have already demonstrated the neighborhood's appeal and potential.

 

WEHO Social is excited to offer residents an exclusive update.

The future built environment of Wedgewood Village, a vision of AJ Capital Partners.

The initial phases of Wedgewood Village will introduce seven distinct buildings with neo-traditional brick exteriors that complement the neighborhood's industrial aesthetic:

  • 515 Houston Street: A 170,000-square-foot, four-story mixed-use building anchored by Momotaro and a forthcoming Italian restaurant

  • 507 Houston Street: A development offering 51,000 square feet of Class A office space and 10,500 square feet of ground-floor retail

  • 448 Humphreys Street: A four-story, 53,300-square-foot building with ground-floor retail and restaurant space beneath 48,000 square feet of Class A offices

  • 445 Humphreys Street: A residential building featuring 240 units above street-level retail and dining spaces

  • 430 Chestnut Street: A 156,500-square-foot building with 140,000 square feet of Class A office space above 16,500 square feet of ground-floor retail and restaurant space, plus The Chestnut, an adjacent venue dedicated to live music performances

A distinctive feature of Wedgewood Village will be the "Leon Loop," named in homage to the property's former owners, Nashville-based rock band Kings of Leon. This area will be anchored by the historic Merritt Mansion and include multiple Memoir residential buildings surrounding a spacious central lawn, creating a community gathering space at the heart of the development.


Special Invitation: WEHO Social Event

You're Invited! Join us to learn more about this exciting project already underway at the upcoming WEHO Social event on Tuesday, March 11th, at The Ranch at Jackalope Brewery. The presentation starts at 6:30 PM with our special guest…Pablo David from AJ Capital Partners will share an exclusive update on Wedgewood Village and answer questions from the community. Don't miss this opportunity to get firsthand information about this transformative development shaping our neighborhood's future. Come early. Stay late. Be social!


Economic and Cultural Impact

Wedgewood Village is expected to generate significant economic activity for Nashville, creating hundreds of construction jobs and permanent positions across retail, hospitality, and office sectors. The project also reinforces Nashville's position as a premier destination for creative businesses and residents seeking an authentic urban experience.


JOIN US!

 

Come Early. Stay Late. Be Social.

Details


About AJ Capital Partners

AJ Capital Partners is a vertically integrated real estate company focused on building a portfolio of transformative real estate investments. The company's projects span hospitality, retail, residential, and commercial developments across the United States.


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Martin and Merritt Hotel and Residence

The Stark Implications of Non-Approval: Risks to Our Community's Future

A Critical Juncture for WeHo's Future

Hi Neighbor -

Let’s talk about the proposed boutique hotel and residences .Our Wedgewood Houston neighborhood stands at a critical juncture. The Martin & Merritt Project is not just a development; it's a carefully crafted vision, born from extensive community dialogue, that will shape our neighborhood's future. This project aligns with WEHO Socials' mission to inform residents with fact-based knowledge to make informed decisions. The implications of its approval—or non-approval—are profound.

Neighborhood Overwhelmingly Supportive: A Testament to Community-Driven Design

The project has been warmly received, particularly by residents nearest the development, reflecting its alignment with community needs and SomeraRoad's unwavering commitment to engagement. This overwhelming support underscores the project's ability to enhance WeHo's unique character while addressing pressing needs.

Project Stats that Impress: Catalyzing Growth and Opportunity

Vibrant Hospitality: 150 hotel rooms to bring vibrancy, visitors, and support local businesses.

·Diverse Housing Options: 190-200 rental units or 150 condominiums, offering diverse housing options to meet evolving community needs.

Thriving Retail Space: 5,000-6,000 sq ft of neighborhood retail space, fostering local commerce and creating jobs.

Efficient Development: A 22-month construction timeline ensuring efficient and responsible progress.

Martin and Merritt Project: Transforming Wedgewood Houston

Comprehensive Neighborhood Benefits Blueprint

Premium Hospitality by Aparium

·      Boutique Hotel on Merritt Avenue:

o   Introduces Aparium's bespoke hospitality expertise to WeHo, establishing the neighborhood as a destination for discerning travelers.

o   Creates specialized employment opportunities for local residents.

o   Enhances neighborhood's cultural profile and increases visibility.

o   Hotel rooftop amenity deck provides premium guest experiences with panoramic Nashville views.

·      Community-Integrated Lobby Design:

o   Serves as both hotel reception and neighborhood gathering space.

o   Creates a vibrant "third place" for WeHo residents to socialize and connect.

o   Encourages authentic cultural exchange between visitors and locals.

o   Accessible through concealed garage entrance, maintaining streetscape aesthetics.

Innovative Connectivity Solutions

·      Hamilton to Merritt Pedestrian Connection:

o   Creates a vital north-south neighborhood connection previously missing.

o   Enhances neighborhood walkability, reducing car dependency.

o   Improves business access for retail establishments throughout the development.

o   Transforms pedestrian experience with wide sidewalks and thoughtful landscaping.

·      Sophisticated Parking System:

o   Completely concealed underground garage with primary entrance on Martin Street.

o   Secondary Hampton driveway access for emergency and delivery vehicles.

o   Hampton Avenue cut-in curb parking exclusively for neighborhood use.

o   Clear signage and easy access points reduce traffic confusion.

Community-Centric Spaces

·      Martin Street Plaza:

o   Central gathering hub for community events, farmers markets, and performances.

o   Creates dedicated public space enhancing neighborhood identity.

o   Promotes social interaction between residents, visitors, and hotel guests.

o   Serves as transitional space connecting retail and residential environments.

·      Revitalized Alleyway:

o   Transforms underutilized urban space into vibrant pedestrian walkway.

o   Potential for outdoor seating, pop-up retail, and artistic installations.

o   Enhances connectivity between development sections.

o   Improves neighborhood safety by activating previously neglected spaces.

·      Pocket Park:

o   Creates accessible green space in an urban setting.

o   Provides environmental benefits through urban heat island reduction.

o   Offers contemplative space contrasting with more active plaza areas.

o   Enhances property values for surrounding areas.

Architectural Excellence

·      Grand Stair:

o   Creates dramatic architectural focal point connecting development levels.

o   Serves as informal seating and gathering area.

o   Enhances pedestrian flow between elevations.

o   Provides opportunity for integrated landscaping and lighting features.

·      'Stoop' Access to Residential Units:

o   Recalls traditional neighborhood design that fosters community interaction.

o   Creates transitional spaces between public and private realms.

o   Enhances street-level visual interest and architectural variety.

o   Promotes natural surveillance, increasing neighborhood safety.

Historical Integration

·      Vintage Millworks Preservation:

o   Honors neighborhood's industrial past while embracing its future.

o   Creates authentic character impossible to replicate in new construction.

o   Attracts creative professionals and businesses valuing historical authenticity.

o   Differentiates development from generic urban projects.

Residential Excellence

·      Diverse Multi-Family Units:

o   Provides varied housing options attracting diverse resident demographics.

o   Increases neighborhood density to support local businesses.

o   Strategic placement on Martin Street enhances street character.

o   Private outdoor terraces for select units create premium living experiences.

·      Residential Amenities:

o   Rooftop amenity deck with fitness center, pool, and outdoor lounge.

o   Outdoor fitness extension creating indoor/outdoor wellness opportunities.

o   Private unit courtyards offering exclusive outdoor spaces.

o   Premium dog park with synthetic turf for year-round use by WeHo pet families.

Economic Vitality

·      Ground Floor Retail:

o   Creates vibrant street-level experience activating all sides of development.

o   Provides opportunities for local entrepreneurs and businesses.

o   Increases neighborhood services and amenities.

o   Generates employment opportunities for local residents.

·      Street Presence:

o   Thoughtful design along Hamilton Avenue, Martin Street, and Merritt Avenue.

o   Consistent architectural language creating unified neighborhood aesthetic.

o   Privacy screens and fencing providing visual interest while maintaining security.

o   Clear identity as Martin & Merritt Hotel & Residence establishing landmark status.

Transformative Impact

This meticulously planned development synthesizes hospitality, residential, retail, and public spaces into a cohesive neighborhood asset that respects WeHo's character while catalyzing its evolution. By addressing connectivity, community needs, aesthetics, and functionality, Martin and Merritt establishes a new standard for neighborhood-integrated urban development in Nashville.

Enhanced Green Space & Community Focus: Investing in WeHo's Quality of Life

  • ·  Greener WeHo: Compliance with Metro zoning ordinances ensures a greener WeHo, with a pocket park on Martin Street and public green spaces on Hamilton Street.

·      Community Amenities: A fenced dog park on Hamilton Street and thoughtfully designed pathways connecting key streets, fostering community interaction.

Safe and Walkable WeHo: Prioritizing Pedestrian-Friendly Design

·      Improved Infrastructure: New sidewalks, street trees, and additional parking enhance safety and walkability.

·      Enhanced Connectivity: A mid-block pedestrian connection and public plaza improve neighborhood connectivity, making WeHo more accessible and enjoyable.

Focus on Regulations and Community Safety: Building a Responsible Future

·      Strict Safety Standards: Adherence to strict fire safety and stormwater management guidelines ensures community safety.

·      Residential Focus: Prohibition of short-term rentals maintains a residential focus, preserving the character of our neighborhood.

Thoughtful Design & Long-Term Commitment: Building a Legacy for WeHo

·      Respect for Zoning: Respect for existing zoning guidelines shows commitment to neighborhood aesthetics and regulations.

·      Long-Term Investment: A 10-year minimum ownership pledge underscores SomeraRoad's dedication to WeHo's long-term future.

Addressing Concerns & Transparency: A Collaborative Approach

·      Responsive Adjustments: Plans have been adjusted based on resident feedback, ensuring minimal disruption during construction.

·      Transparent Process: Transparency is maintained with modifications adhering to approved plans without increasing density, ensuring open communication and accountability.

The Stark Implications of Non-Approval: Risks to Our Community's Future

If the Martin & Merritt Project is not approved, we risk:

·      Losing a meticulously planned development that directly addresses our community's needs, in favor of potentially less thoughtful, less community-aligned projects.

·      Missing a crucial opportunity to revitalize WeHo, enhance green spaces, and improve infrastructure.

·      Undermining the momentum of community-driven development and the trust built through extensive dialogue.

·      The loss of a large amount of green space and public amenities that are already planned.

·      A loss of new infrastructure that will improve the quality of life for all residents.

Your Role in Shaping WeHo's Destiny: Active Engagement is Crucial

We urge you to:

·      Stay informed through WEHO Social updates. (Requires WEHO Social Newsletter Subscription)

·      Communicate with local officials, emphasizing the project's importance. https://www.wehosocial.org/feedback

·      Engage with your neighbors, sharing the vision for a thriving WeHo.

·      Resources are available by clicking here.

The Martin & Merritt Project represents a pivotal opportunity to enhance WeHo's vitality, safety, and community spirit. Let's work together to ensure a bright future for our neighborhood.




Meeting notes from latest community meeting: https://www.wehosocial.org/briefings/martin-amp-merritt-

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Martin and Merritt Development Community Meeting February 11, 2025


Martin & Merritt Development Community Meeting
February 11, 2025

Prepared by: Earnest Morgan
Contact: earnest@wedgewoodhouston.org

DISCLAIMER: This brief contains time-sensitive information. If you notice any inaccuracies, please contact the author immediately for correction.

PROJECT OVERVIEW

SomeraRoad proposes a mixed-use development at the Martin & Merritt intersection, requiring rezoning from industrial warehousing to a Specific Plan (SP).

Metro Planning Case Number: 2025SP-005-001

The project includes:

  • 155-room boutique hotel

  • 150-200 residential units (potential condos)

  • Retail spaces and community plaza

  • Infrastructure improvements

ZONING CONTEXT

  • Current: Industrial warehousing (1998)

  • Proposed: Based on 2019/2021 community planning studies

  • Character Area 1: Max 3-story, mixed-use

  • Character Area 2: Residential (20 units/acre)

DESIGN ADAPTATIONS

Developer has modified plans based on prior feedback:

  • Reduced building heights near residential areas

  • Relocated density to lower elevations

  • Integrated parking garage within development

  • Internalized valet and ride-share operations

KEY COMMUNITY CONCERNS

1. Traffic & Infrastructure

  • Hamilton Avenue residential traffic impact

  • Parking overflow into neighborhoods

  • Pedestrian safety beyond development

  • Questions about traffic study methodology

2. Construction Impact

  • Extended construction noise

  • Early/late delivery disruptions

  • Potential foundation damage

  • Request for enforcement mechanisms

3. Development Scale

  • Precedent for future projects

  • Need for binding community benefits agreement

  • Business operation regulations

  • Height and density protections

4. Community Integration

  • Affordable housing inclusion

  • Artist residency possibilities

  • Local business displacement concerns

  • Neighborhood character preservation

DEVELOPER COMMITMENTS

  • Vibration monitoring implementation

  • Noise control measures

  • Priority sidewalk construction

  • Binding agreements for construction compliance

  • Willingness to explore alternative traffic patterns


TIMELINE & NEXT STEPS

Immediate Actions:

  • Planning Commission vote deferred to February 27, 2025

  • Community feedback deadline: February 20, 2025

  • Traffic study report release pending

  • Development of binding operational agreements

Required Deliverables:

  • Updated traffic access plans

  • Construction management protocol

  • Community benefits agreement

  • Operational guidelines for businesses

STAKEHOLDER POSITIONS

  • Developer: Open to modifications within project constraints

  • Community: Mixed support with specific concern areas

  • SNAP Board: Facilitating ongoing dialogue

  • Council: Engaged in review process

This development represents a significant change for the neighborhood, with both opportunities and challenges requiring continued stakeholder engagement and careful planning oversight.

CONTACTS

  • Terry Vo (Metro Council Member)

    • Role: Local Government Liaison

    • Phone: 615-862-6780

    • Email: terry.vo@nashville.gov

    • Website: Nashville.gov

  • Metropolitan Nashville Development

For corrections or updates to this brief, please contact:
Earnest Morgan
earnest@wedgewoodhouston.org

 

Metro Planning Case Number: 2025SP-005-001


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