The goal of the Fairgrounds Master Plan is to provide decision makers with sound economic analyses on alternative futures for the Tennessee State Fairgrounds property and follows specific direction given by the Metro Council and by the Board of Fair Commissioners.
Fairgrounds Master Plan Phase 1: Fair and Events Analysis
This is a data-driven study. Phase 1 addressed the following questions:
- Looking at well-respected state fairgrounds around the country, what are the best practice facilities and events found at high performing state fair complexes in similar markets?
- What are the physical characteristics and economic projections for the Tennessee State Fairgrounds complex, in as-is condition, assuming no major investment?
- If best practices for state fairgrounds were applied to the existing Tennessee State Fairgrounds, what facilities and events would be included? What would be the cost of improvements? What would this best practices – Fairgrounds scenario look like and what would be the costs, benefits and economic projections?
- What would a Tennessee State Fair and year-round event venue look like if best practices were applied to a greenfield site? What are the physical requirements and capital costs to create a best practices state fair and year-round venues on a greenfield site of adequate size with regional accessibility? What would be the costs, benefits and economic projections under this scenario?
Phase 1 Master Plan Report, presented to Council February 21, 2013
Fairgrounds Master Plan Phase 2: Recommended Master Plan
This is also a data-driven study. Phase 2 will identify the highest and best mixed use scenario for the fairgrounds site based on market analyses. It will also assess cost, benefits, and economic projections. For purposes of the study, mixed use is defined as two or more uses. Finally, the Phase 2 study will compare the “highest and best mixed use scenario” with the “best practices” model prepared in Phase 1 for the existing fairgrounds property.
Phase 2 Master Plan Report, presented to Council February 26, 2013
Appendices to Phase 2 Master Plan Report, Part One