On September 4, 2025, the Stormwater Management Commission of Metro Nashville convened to discuss a significant redevelopment project aimed at addressing longstanding stormwater issues in Davidson County. The meeting highlighted the collaborative efforts between developers and Metro Water Services to enhance flood management and environmental sustainability in the area.
The proposed project involves the redevelopment of an existing shopping center, which has been identified as partially situated within a floodway. Key elements of the plan include the removal of several buildings that currently obstruct the floodplain, raising the finished floor elevations of remaining structures to comply with flood safety regulations, and reducing impervious surfaces to improve water absorption and mitigate flooding risks.
John Richard Patterson from Kimberly Horn, representing the development team, outlined the project's objectives, emphasizing the removal of approximately 27,000 square feet of existing building footprint. This demolition is intended to facilitate better water flow and maintenance access for existing stormwater infrastructure, including a significant 84-inch box culvert that will be rerouted for improved functionality.
In addition to structural changes, the redevelopment plan includes the establishment of a riparian buffer along Richland Creek, which will involve the removal of asphalt and parking areas to create green space. This initiative aims to enhance the ecological health of the area while also contributing to the overall reduction of impervious cover by approximately 10% of the site.
The commission's discussions also touched on the necessity of a "no rest analysis" to evaluate potential impacts further, although no comments were provided by the planning or codes departments at the time. The project is seen as a proactive step towards addressing legacy stormwater issues while aligning with Nashville's broader goals for sustainable urban development.
As the meeting concluded, the commission's decision on the redevelopment proposal remains pending, with further public comments and deliberations expected in future sessions. The outcome of this project could set a precedent for similar initiatives aimed at improving stormwater management and environmental resilience in Nashville.