In 2021, the Metro Nashville Planning Department kicked off “Imagine East Bank,” a study to examine the future development of the East Bank, the area right off the Cumberland that includes 100+ acres of publicly-owned land. Metro and their contracted design firm hosted some “public workshops” to discuss the plan, but we went to those meetings, and in many cases, the primary attendees were developers, and attendance was overwhelmingly white.

We saw the need to step in and set an example of what real community engagement on the East Bank looks like.

On Feb. 27, we hosted “The Future of East Nashville: Fish Fry & Facts,” where we invited local residents for food, fellowship, and the opportunity to share their vision for their community. More than 200 Nashvillians attended.

We solicited feedback from them in two ways: a vision board, which was arranged by a local artist, and a more in-depth survey. All were centered around five topics: Affordable Housing, Small Business, Inclusive Cultural Spaces, Good Jobs, and Real Community Engagement.

On the big board, we received more than 300 submissions, and we received more than 100 in-depth surveys.

HERE are some of the highlights of what we’ve learned.