Edgehill is a significant, historically African American urban neighborhood, just south of Downtown Nashville. The neighborhood experienced substantial change during urban renewal and has seen unprecedented redevelopment in recent years. The community is a time capsule of priorities and choices made across several generations. Nearby neighborhoods, including the Gulch and Music Row, and higher education institutions, Belmont University and Vanderbilt University, have also shaped growth and development in the neighborhood.
The study area is generally bounded by I-40 on the north, 8th Avenue South on the east, Wedgewood Avenue on the south, and Villa Place on the west. It includes several public facilities including a branch of the Nashville Public Library, the Midtown Hills Police Precinct, Rose Park, Reservoir Park, and two public schools – Carter Lawrence Elementary and Rose Park Middle School. Additionally, there are two Metropolitan Development and Housing Agency communities in the neighborhood: the Edgehill Apartments and the Gernert Studio Apartments.
About the Project
The Metro Nashville Planning Department is wrapping up a six-month neighborhood planning process to guide growth and development in Edgehill over the next 20 years. The draft neighborhood-wide plan seeks to ground itself in the unique role of Edgehill within Nashville: a historic urban center for the African American community, a place deeply affected by the choices of 1960s urban renewal, and a strong neighborhood of active and organized residents.
Draft recommendations in the plan are organized around three guiding principles:
- Retain and Preserve: Strategies for preserving Edgehill’s historic neighborhood and mixed-income character.
- Inclusive, Smart Growth: A plan for mixed-use housing and businesses focused along major corridors.
- Reconnect and Elevate: A vision for tying existing open spaces together into a network of enhanced neighborhood amenities.
The project will result in a neighborhood plan that reflects the goals of the community and results in clear implementation steps. Recommendations will include goals for housing, open space, mobility, and economic development that have the potential to help shape future growth in Edgehill, centered around equity and the community’s goals.
Be Part of the Team
With your participation, the community can help establish the strategic direction for the Edgehill neighborhood and ensure new development and public investments address the community’s needs. The project will include three public meetings and this website to keep you up to date on the latest information.
Upcoming Events
Please join us for upcoming events to share your ideas. Every successful plan requires careful listening, robust community engagement, and coordination with stakeholders. Information on upcoming engagement opportunities will be posted to this page and shared with partners and stakeholders.