A PROPOSAL FOR THE

TENNESSEE STATE FAIRGROUNDS

August, 2008
Revised February 8, 2010

Written By

Lisa Leeds

And

Thomas Watson

3D Illustrations

By

Thomas Watson
You see things; and you say, “Why?” But I dream things that never were;
and I say, "Why not?"

George Benard Shaw, "Back to Methuselah" (1921), part 1, act 1

The Fairground Heritage Preservation Group Is a group of concerned citizens, banded together to foster the
preservation and quality of this community resource that has been handed down to us from past
generations. This resource not only has a rich history of its own, but dates back to the original founding of
Nashville. We believe that history can be equally, if not more, important than "the bottom line" and that
history can do more to build pride in the community and maintain a quality of life for the residents than
"condos" and "strip malls."

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Introduction

Who we are
We are simply a group of concerned citizens with an interest in the future of the
fairgrounds. We include people from all walks of life, citizens of Davidson County for
the most part, but also citizens of other parts of Tennessee, and other parts of the
country. Some of us live far away, and some of us live right next door to the
fairgrounds. But all of us share a concern for the future of this resource.

About the suggestions of this proposal

We understand that not everyone will share in our visions of a redeveloped fairgrounds.
We also understand that there are practical reasons why some of these proposals would
not be adopted. We further understand that specific designs can vary.

But what we really hope to accomplish is to demonstrate that with a bit of imagination
and yes, even a few dreams, the fairgrounds have the potential to become a
centerpiece for the community and the state.

So even if you don’t like a particular proposal or a particular design that we have
presented here, we hope that you can still see the potential, and dream a little bit
yourself.

About the illustrations

We have used 3D computer modeling to visually present most of our suggestions and
ideas. However, in producing these illustrations we did not have access to blueprints,
engineering drawings, or even maps. Most of the illustrations were based on the
Google Maps satellite view of the fairgrounds along with a few photographs.

So while some things are not exact, we have tried to maintain proportions and spatial
relationships of the various features.

Scaling may not always be exact or precise, but we are attempting to stimulate your
imagination, not produce engineering drawings or architect’s blueprints.
And the same goes for some of the details of proposed and existing features—some
objects may not look exactly as they do in the real world, and some objects, both
existing and proposed may lack some details.

Although we did model the entire fairgrounds and part of the adjacent areas, as a
practical matter, it was not feasible to model the entire city of Nashville surrounding the
fairgrounds. Therefore you will see some places, particularly roads and such, that just
simply end in a clump of trees that may not actually exist in the real world.

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 So overall, these illustrations are not perfect, nor were they meant to be. They are
simply “sketches” presented as just another tool to spark your imagination.

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Where to begin?
Let’s begin at the beginning.

A brief history

The property of the State Fairgrounds is a property rich in history, dating back to
the time before there even was a state of Tennessee or a city of Nashville. The
fairgrounds are the largest and last portion of a 640 acre tract of land belonging to an
early settler, John Rains. Rains was given that section of land by the new United States
as a reward for service in the Revolutionary War, as was the custom with soldiers of the
Revolution. At that time, there was no state of Tennessee, and the area was a part of
North Carolina, inhabited only by the Native Americans.

This practice of rewarding soldiers with land for their military service ensured
that the frontiers of the new country were settled by loyal and hardy men.

Rains, originally a native of Virginia, set out with his family to claim his land grant
along the Cumberland River, and along the way met up with a group of other
Revolutionary veterans led by James Robertson. And so on Christmas day of 1779,
Rains and his family crossed the frozen Cumberland River along with 200 other settlers
to found what would become the city of Nashville.

While Robertson built Fort Nashboro, Rains built another blockhouse fort in the
center of his property (approximately where the public television station sits on Rains
Road) that served to help fortify the new city. Water for the Rains family came from a
spring close to what is now the Nolensville Road entrance to the State Fairgrounds.

Rains is credited with bringing the first herds of cattle and horses to the region,
and his herds grazed in what is now the fairgrounds along Brown’s Creek, and his crops
grew on the hill overlooking the area.

The area prospered and in 1784, the state of North Carolina incorporated the city
of Nashville at what was then known as Fort Nashboro. In 1796, after North Carolina
had ceded its land to the United States, the state of Tennessee was admitted to the
union.

The current Tennessee State Fairgrounds grew from the sport of harness racing, which
was quite popular not only in Nashville, but nationwide in the latter part of the 19th
century.

Originally built and funded by private individuals, an organization of harness racing

owners and breeders eventually took over the race track at its present location, known
then as “Cumberland Park.”

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The area around Franklin Pike boasted several noted stables, including Bell Meade,
Traveler’s Rest, and Hermitage Stud. A road was built to connect these stables to the
race track, and named “Wedgewood” in honor of Hermitage Stud’s most noted horse.

Harness racing was the “NASCAR” of its day, and races and events at the Nashville
track were regularly reported across the country in newspapers such as the New York
Times1 during the 1880’s.

“Horseless carriage” racing started at the racetrack on June 11, 1904 with the first auto
race. That race ended when a motorcycle rear-ended an automobile.2

However the next race, in September of that year, was more successful pitting many of
the drivers from the 1904 World’s Fair including legendary Indy-racing pioneer Barney
Oldfield, in a heated race. Spectators marveled at cars speeding along at more than 60
miles per hour!3

Figure 1 - State Fairgrounds circa 1910

But the race track was pretty much still devoted to the sport of harness racing until
1909, when the State of Tennessee criminalized gambling in the state. Since gambling
is pretty much the basis of funding for horse races, this made it no longer viable for the
breeders to operate the track. Also the property had been used as a fairground for
several years, and the State wanted a permanent site for a State Fair.

In his 1909 “State of the State” address, Governor Patterson stated, “I call your
attention to the proposition for an agricultural fair to be established at Nashville as a
permanent State institution; and, in my opinion, this should meet with your
approbation.”

1
http://query.nytimes.com/gst/abstract.html?res=9900E2DA1F39E533A25752C1A9649C94679FD7CF
2
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Music_City_Motorplex
3
Ibid.
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In February, 1909 the Legislature passed a bill (Act 42) authorizing Davidson County to
issue bonds for $150,000 to purchase the property “upon which there shall be
established and maintained permanently a State Fair.”

Later in 1909, the State reached an agreement with Davidson County to acquire the
property, and included in the County Charter is the provision that the county operate
the designated state fair on that property. The provisions of this section of the County
Charter will be presented later in this document.

The track and auto-racing activities continued to grow and prosper at the track, and
even horse racing continued in limited fashion. Since this was a dirt track, both sports
could co-exist.

Figure 2 - Auto racing at the fairgrounds circa 1910

However, the next big event in the history of the fairgrounds had nothing to do with the
racing of either horses or automobiles.

In June, 1910, the U.S. War Department held a huge military exposition and maneuvers
at the fairgrounds. Over 20,000 persons attended the event to watch demonstrations
of the latest from the U.S. Cavalry and artillery units. The Secretary of War himself
presided over the event.

But the true hit of the show was the latest idea in military hardware, the “aeroplane.”
Only seven years after the Wright brothers’ historic first flights, most Americans, and
certainly most Tennesseans had never actually seen an aircraft.

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The War Department had hired noted airman Charles Keener Hamilton to demonstrate
the capabilities of this new machine, including dropping bombs from the air. This would
be only the second time that bombs had been dropped from an airplane.

And while the audiences were awed by the dropping bombs and Hamilton’s dare-devil
tactics, the really big event happened on the night of June 22 when Hamilton strapped
a searchlight onto his aircraft and made the first night flight in aviation history, taking
off from the racetrack straightaway.

Figure 3 - Charles K. Hamilton in his Curtiss "flyer"

Harness racing continued to be a popular sport and created another unusual event at
the fairgrounds.

During the 1890’s the record for a 2-minute mile by a trotting horse was broken by
noted racer John R. Gentry. Gentry was retired in 1900 and sent to his retirement at
the Tennessee State Fairgrounds along with his trainer, Sam Seay, who was given a
special apartment adjoining the stables.

John R. Gentry lived there until his death in 1920 at age 32- the oldest living racer at
the time. A huge funeral was held at the racetrack, attended by hundreds, and was
officiated by the Reverend George Stoves and eulogized by Tennessee poet laureate
John Trotwood Moore.

John R. Gentry was buried in the infield of the racetrack where he still rests today.

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However, horse racing was on the wane by the 50’s and as a result of the Fair Board
granting a 10-year lease, with a 20-year extension, promoters paved the track in 1958.
A new dirt track was built in Brentwood for the benefit of the horse races.

NASCAR sanctioned the revamped track, and Nashville was home to the NASCAR
Winston Cup Series from 1958-1985. 1958 was also the beginning of the NASCAR All
American 400 Series which continues to run to this day.

The track, renamed the Music City Motorplex in 2004, celebrates its 50th year as a
NASCAR sanctioned track this year.

And during that time, some of the NASCAR “greats” have raced and won here—Richard
Petty, Dale Earnhardt, Darrell Waltrip, Geoffery Bodine, Bill Elliot, Bobby Allison-- and
even country music star Marty Robbins.

Local resident “Coo Coo” Marlin started a 3-generation dynasty of NASCAR winners by
being the first driver to win back-to-back championships in 1965 and 1966 and his son
Sterling Marlin became the first driver to win three back-to-back championships at
Nashville. His son and daughter, Steadman and Sutherlin Marlin, are well on their way
to establishing the third generation of this local racing family.

The 60’s, 70’s and early 80’s saw the track move forward with weekly races being held
each week of the racing season. However, in 1985, NASCAR removed the Winston Cup
Races, citing limited grandstand sized, and also a management dispute.4

In 2007, NASCAR added two regional series races at the Motorplex, The Camping World
East Series and the Southern Region Whelen Modifieds race.5

During the 2007 season, over 100 drivers registered NASCAR points running in only
three divisions at Music City Motorplex. According to stockcarracing.com,

“Any pavement short track in America would be very happy to get over 100 cars in
just three divisions. This alone speaks volumes for the competition level and loyalty of
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the racers at Nashville.”

And race fans have responded. Attendance has been on the rise for the past
four years, and some experts predict that the 2008 season will end up as one
of the best in recent history.

Quoting stockcarracing.com again:

“Fan support at Nashville has been on the upswing over the past four years. The best
strategy of getting families in the seats is to first tell them where you are located and
what you do. The second component is to make the venue family friendly. Then make

4
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Music_City_Motorplex
5
Ibid.
6
http://www.stockcarracing.com/featurestories/scrp_0809_historic_racetrack/nascar.html
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 it affordable. You've also got to have a great show and get spectators out of the
racetrack at a decent hour. Nashville is a master of the four hour show, not letting it
drag into the late hours of the night. Being in Nashville, the track faces a lot of
competition for the entertainment dollar. But at only $10 for an adult admission
ticket, races at Nashville are considered a value.”

If it seems as if we are concentrating on the race track, we are. The race track and the
fairgrounds are so inexorably linked, that the history of the track is basically the history
of the fairgrounds itself. Were it not for the race track, there would be no fairgrounds
today.

As illustrated by the following period postcard, the racetrack and grandstand are sitting
on the exact same spot (even having been rebuilt after a 1965 fire) as the original race
track. You can even see how the racetrack is cut from the hillside, and the rise up to
where the exhibit buildings now sit.

Figure 4 - Fairgrounds circa 1920 (?)

Being in continuous operation for over 100-years, the fairgrounds and the race
track, along with its 50-year record of NASCAR recognition, both hold a position
of historical importance as a cultural resource not only for the people of
Nashville, but for all citizens of Tennessee.

Choices for the future

Recently the Fair Board contracted Markin Consulting to provide an assessment and
recommendations for the future of the Tennessee State Fair and the fair grounds
themselves.

In that report, Markin listed three primary options for the Tennessee State Fair:

• Continue operating the TSF as is

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 • Cease operations of the TSF
• Reinvent the TSF as a true State Fair

We feel that to continue everything “as is” would be repeating many mistakes of the
past, and would eventually become a financial burden on Davidson County as the fair
grounds at this time have declined due to improper maintenance and poor management
and oversight.

We agree that the fair and the fairgrounds are in definite need of an overhaul of major
proportions.

As to the second option, we do not believe this is viable, nor legally possible.
The Charter of the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County is the
document passed by the State Legislature that gives Nashville/Davidson County the
authority to operate as a governmental body, and establishes certain conditions and
restrictions to that authority.

The current Metro Charter incorporates Acts 490 and 515 (which govern the State Fair
and fairgrounds) by direct reference, and 515 is included word-for-word.

The two most important provisions are section 3 and section 10:

Section 3 provides that the Board of Fair Commissioners “shall have full power to
prescribe rules and regulations for its own government and organization, and for the
holding of said fairs and expositions, and shall elect officers for the fairs, and shall
choose whatever employes(sic) it may deem necessary and fix their compensation; …

This basically establishes the fairgrounds as a separate entity from Davidson County
that is not under the control of the Mayor or Metro Council.

The property had been previously leased to the State of Tennessee on a 99-year lease
with the State holding the State Fair. However, in 1923, at the time 515 passed, the
State determined it was going out of the fair business, and it would be taken over by
the Davidson County Fair Board of Commissioners.

Section 10 gives the fair Board the authority to enter into negotiations with the
Commissioner of Agriculture for dissolving any outstanding leases with the State of
Tennessee, “and to take complete charge and control on behalf of such counties, and
they shall use and maintain such property by holding thereon, at least once a year, for
not less than six days, a fair or exposition for the benefit of the people of such counties,
and they may lease for amusement purposes said property at such times and in such
ways as not to interfere with the operation of said fair, the proceeds received from said
leases to be used in the maintenance of said fair, at which shall be exhibited, as far as
possible, the resource of said county and the State of Tennessee…”

These provisions have the force of law, and basically state that Davidson County has
agreed to operate a state fair in Nashville in perpetuity
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In any type of legal dispute over legislation or statutes, courts first attempt to
determine the intent of the legislative body which passed the legislation or statute.

Here, with just a plain reading, the intent of the Tennessee Legislature is perfectly
clear. The fairgrounds property can be used for only one purpose, and cannot be sold
or transferred to anyone other than the original owner. The Legislature obviously
meant to preclude any sort of future windfall profit to the County from the possible sale
or development for other purposes of the fairground property.

Should Davidson County somehow attempt to divest itself of the property, we feel that
there would be legal challenge from citizens, who are in fact, the owners of that
property.

Barring the legality of transfer, we also do not believe it to be financially responsible.

As much upgrading as is needed at the fairgrounds, it is certainly less costly than
building a new facility.

The property partially sits on a flood plane, and the remainder is very steep and “hilly”
for any sort of commercial development. Further, the property is situated in what could
best be called a “transitional” neighborhood, surrounded by a large area of primarily
commercial and light industrial development.

None of these factors would contribute to a “top dollar” sale of the property, and
certainly not bring enough to purchase comparable property and rebuild all of the
buildings and facilities of the current site.

Therefore we feel that even if it were legally possible, it is not financially viable to
contemplate moving to a new, possibly lesser facility.

There is also a small but vocal group of people who feel that even if the fairgrounds
remain, that the race track should be closed due to the noise generated by the un-
muffled racecar engines.

As already stated, the race track was established, and auto races have been held there
for over 100 years. There is no one alive in that neighborhood who was a property
owner at the time the race track was established or auto racing began there.

Therefore each and every one of those individuals purchased their property and moved
into the neighborhood with the full knowledge that the fairgrounds was there and that
the race track existed and that the race track was responsible for a certain level of
noise at times.

This is not a situation where the fairgrounds and race track moved into an existing
neighborhood and caused a nuisance—such as sometimes happens in the establishment
of an airport, for instance. This is a case of persons purchasing property and moving
into an existing situation with the full knowledge of its existence.
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However, we recognize that there is nothing in any current legislation that requires a
race track. Only a State Fair is required, and other events are leased out at the
pleasure of the Fair Board. We feel that the existence of motor racing is an issued that
the opponents and proponents should address to the Fair Board.

We will offer some suggested solutions to the situation because it currently exists.

Markin Consulting, in its assessment of the fairgrounds, surveyed both area and local
residents, those in the immediate neighborhood of the fairgrounds. There were
approximately 200 people surveyed at the two public meetings, some from as far away
as Cookville, Shelbyville, and Murfreesboro, but the majority being close residents to
the fairgrounds.

The results of the survey show that approximately eight out of ten respondents
indicated that the fairgrounds should remain as it is, but should be expanded with more
community facilities as well as an entertainment venue.

One organization has an online survey with over 3,000 signatures, over half of which
are local Nashville residents who feel that the racetrack should remain as an integral
part of the fairgrounds itself.

The fairgrounds and all of its concessions—the racetrack, flea market, wrestling, gun
shows, etc.—currently have a significant economic impact on Davidson County, bringing
in approximately $50-$60 million into the local economy.7 The fairgrounds operations
also account for over one million visitors to Nashville each year, and over 29,000
hotel/motel nights. The flea market itself accounts for over 50,000 visitors to Davidson
County each month.

Most of these events would be unable to find new venues within Davidson County in
which to operate, and thus would move to other cities and counties, taking their visitors
and their money with them.

Further, the fairgrounds operation has been totally self-sustaining for its entire 100-year
history. Davidson County has never paid a dime the fairgrounds. In fact, the
fairgrounds pay a considerable sum to Davidson County each year in the form of
“service fees” and had several million dollars “raided” from its reserves for the Metro
acquisition of the Titans football team.

However, we feel that with major improvements, the fairgrounds could become an even
more significant factor in the local economy. But it will take imagination, hard work,
and of course, some “front money” to make it all happen—although as noted later in
this document, there are options for obtaining this “front money” and other services
that would reduce any outlay by the fairgrounds itself.

7
According to information presentation to the Fair Board of Commissioners during a February, 2009
meeting and compiled by the fairgrounds staff.
13
Figure 5 - The area surrounding the fairgrounds.
In this illustration the fairgrounds are outlined in green, and red indicates property that
is already in non-residential use—either commercial or light industrial for the most part.
The purple block is mainly government assisted housing, and not likely to be open to
any sort of development. The blue lines are active railroad lines.

This demonstrates no only the encroachment of non-residential usage, but also the
position of the fairgrounds as a “magnet” for further and/or upgraded commercial
development of the area. With its excellent access to interstate highways, the
fairgrounds are well positioned to become a prime location for not only “THE”
Tennessee State Fair itself, but for an expanded range of entertainment events, trade
shows, and public exhibition venues as well as an area of community involvement.

The Dream and the Proposals

Following are some of our various proposals for “reinventing” the Tennessee State
Fairgrounds and its metamorphosis into The Historic Tennessee State Fairgrounds.

They are presented in no particular order, since most of these proposals can be
evaluated and implemented on an individual basis. Their interrelation rests solely on
their combined effect of making the fairgrounds a gem in the community and a
desirable location for fun and recreation.

So please come with us to our dream of a “new” fairground- where the grass is always
green, and the sky is always blue.

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The New Fairgrounds

Figure 6- Entrance to the fairgrounds viewed from the bus stop on Nolensville Road.

Our goal for the metamorphosis of the fairgrounds was to change it from something
that appears to have been designed by the county maintenance barn into a more
classic park-like environment. One that is inviting, and has opportunity for public use
and enjoyment.

We started with Walsh Road by re-naming it “Wedgewood Parkway.” Walsh is merely

an extension of Wedgewood Drive and it makes it more consistent to continue the
name of the larger street. In fact, some maps now show Walsh labeled as
“Wedgewood.” Further, Wedgewood Drive was originally constructed to connect the
horse stables at Traveler’s Rest Plantation with the racetrack, and was named after a
champion racehorse.

The name would also reinforce the idea of a park-like area.

We have then made it a true parkway by dividing the lanes and separating them with a
median while maintaining its current wide sweeping curves. Smith Street now becomes
the “crossover” of the median, and provides access to the mid-section of the
fairgrounds.

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Figure 7- Wedgewood Parkway

The median is landscaped and, borrowing from the downtown classical re-design, is
lined with traditional globe lights illuminating both lanes of traffic.

The eastern/south sides of Wedgewood Parkway also feature a tree-lined median

separating it from a walkway, which, using another suggestion from the downtown
redevelopment, is paved with cobbles. The addition of benches gives it a welcoming
look as well as providing rest stops when walking the dog.

In keeping with the classic theme, the entrance now features an archway or similar
construction utilizing fieldstone. Perimeter fences which face on public streets are
replaced by a spike fence on fieldstone bases. Fieldstone is also used to front other
features such as retaining walls and risers.

Areas of greenway are incorporated into the new design and are discussed in later
sections.

Another major feature of the redesign is replacing the intersection of Wedgewood and
Raines/Wilson with a traffic circle. This circle features a fountain in our concept, but
could be merely decorative plantings. However, we feel that the fountain adds
considerable esthetic appeal and is a feature that could perhaps be underwritten by
sponsorship.

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Figure 8- Traffic circle at Wilson and Wedgewood

We feel that a redesign of this magnitude will make the fairgrounds much more
appealing, not only to the public, but to potential contractors for entertainment, trade,
and public events.

The Parking Areas and Greenway

You can already see some major changes in the illustrations above, but let’s present
one that’s not quite so glamorous or dramatic—the parking lots.

As you can see in the overhead view, the parking

lot situation is a bit of a muddle at best—roads all
over, some even running in circles, and bit of
asphalt here and bits of grass there. All of this
creates not only some confusion, but wasted space
that is unable to be allocated to any particular use.

We feel that the consolidation of many of these

areas can yield more efficient parking areas, more
logical layout for the midway area, and still leave
considerable room for greenway areas, that will
lead to more community involvement in the
fairgrounds in general.

In our “new” fairgrounds, areas to the left (west) of

Figure 9 - Overhead view of the 17
current fairgrounds
the race track are left basically intact.

Areas above, to the right, and below the track (north, east, south) undergo major
change.

All of the odd bits of asphalt and grass have been consolidated, and un-necessary roads
have been eliminated.

Paved areas have been “squared off” whenever possible, giving more efficient use as
both parking and midway areas.

A greenway area has been established to the east and to the south of the track,
involving Brown’s Creek, and yielding an area
suitable for public use and enjoyment.

The greenway areas have been laid out with the idea
in mind that many parts of them could be utilized as
overflow parking or midway areas. Since the fair is
an annual event, it is felt that any damage to the turf
would be minimal, and would easily recover from use
in a short period of time. “Snow fences” or some
other type of temporary barrier could be used to
protect the actual greenway path if needed, although
the planting of trees and shrubbery would provide a
natural protection.

By establishing roads close to the track bank on the

east and south sides, and connecting them to the
tunnel access road, a full perimeter transit of the
fairgrounds is possible, and keeping the roads to Figure 10 - New parking lot
opposite sides of the greenway preserves the layout
walkway experience.

All greenway areas are bordered by roads in the event they need to be utilized as
“overflow” space.

Direct access to the cattle barns has been preserved on the south side of the
fairgrounds.

The Greenway
This is perhaps one of our more optimistic proposals. Closely tied in to the
restructuring of the parking lots is the establishment of a greenway area, including a
walking path along Brown’s Creek.

This would not only “green” up the fairgrounds, but would provide a public area for
recreation and relaxation.

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We envision a walking path beginning at the entrance gate and extending to the south
part of the fairgrounds, generally following Brown’s creek. The path would be a simple
affair of treated timber bordering a woodchip walkway.

Figure 11- start of the greenway footpath

There would be at least three picnic tables and shelters added along the pathway. The
picnic areas are all close to service roadways not only for maintenance, but for
handicapped access as well.

Figure 12- Picnic shelter and footbridge crossing Brown's Creek

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Brown’s Creek would be cleaned of underbrush and the entire greenway area planted
with grass to form large meadows. Additional trees would also be planted along the
creek and the walkway.

The creek would also be stocked with fish. We understand the creek is actually fishable
now, but stocking it would provide sufficient fish for it to become a public activity—not
for serious sport fishing, but more as a fun activity for children. Fishing would be catch-
and-release.

In this figure, you can see the proposed route (yellow line) of
the walkway along Brown’s Creek, as well as the meadow
areas. These are the same areas referred to earlier that
could be used as “overflow” from the paved lots, and notice
that they are laid out to be utilized as such with the walkway
far to one side.

There are two footbridge crossings of the creek, not only to

add a bit of “interest” along the walk, but also due to the
banking of the race track and its proximity to the creek.

The small gray squares are picnic shelter areas.

Low maintenance shrubbery such as rhododendron should be

planted along the fairground boundary not only for
Figure 13 - Greenway beautification, but to shield the walkway from the view of
path. Craighead Street.

But perhaps the most interesting aspect of this particular proposal is that we feel this
project could be done at little or no cost to the fairgrounds and create a tremendous
amount of community effort and public involvement in the facility.

It may not be common knowledge, but within the Boy Scouts, a prospective Eagle
Scout is required to plan and organize a public service project. And this greenway is
exactly the type of project that the candidates seek to perform, and is squarely within
the scope of projects that leaders expect of them.

Obviously this type of project is too large for one person to accomplish alone, and so
we also have an opportunity for 4-H and FFA to participate as well.

The preparation of Brown’s Creek could be supervised by the Wildlife Commission, and
perhaps even volunteer involvement of organizations such as Trout Unlimited, who
have a program of “adopting” sections of streams and building fish habitats and other
features to encourage good fishing. While the water in Brown’s Creek may not be cold
enough for trout, a local chapter may still adopt it as a project. If not, there are other
sport fishing organizations who may be interested.

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The Wildlife Commission and the Department of Agriculture could also participate in
tree planting (furnishing trees to be planted by the youth volunteers) as well as planting
of the meadow areas.

The walkway itself and the bridges and picnic shelters are very simple rustic
construction and do not require expensive materials or highly skilled labor to construct.
If the organization heading the project was unable to furnish the materials, it’s very
likely that a local sponsor could be secured who would participate in this manner. It
would be an excellent public relations opportunity for a company to do so. Funding
could also be possible through State Greenway Development funds.

Cables, Wires and Phone Poles

You will not see and power lines or phone poles in our proposal. All wiring has been
moved underground in our world. With this move, phone poles have been rendered
obsolete. This not only is for cosmetic purposes, but will provide lower maintenance
costs in the future, as well as removing obstacles to the utilization of open spaces.

All lighting has been replaced by dedicated light poles at designated intervals around
the fairgrounds, and are “shielded” light fixtures preventing the light from “stealing the
night” as well as minimizes light bleeding over into the surrounding area.

The Reality vs. The Dream

Using photos from the makethefairgroundsgreen.com website, we can show a contrast
between the current reality and our future dream. We have tried to keep the
viewpoints as similar as possible. You will also see the dramatic effects of the above
proposal concerning poles and wires.

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Figure 14- The current entrance from Nolensville Road

Figure 15- The new fairgrounds entrance from Nolensville Road

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Figure 16- The view from just inside the front gate

Figure 17- View from just inside the front gate

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Figure 18- The view from the top of Wingrove Street

Figure 19- View from the top of Wingrove Street

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Figure 20- View from hilltop looking toward entrance

Figure 21- New view from hilltop looking toward entrance

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Sound Suppression
Should auto racing continue at the Fairgrounds, some effort should be put forth to
reduce sound levels.

Trees are among the best of sound suppression devices, and the current fairgrounds
are almost devoid of trees, making it them a huge reflector of echoes and
reverberation.

Our proposal dealing with the “greening” of the fairgrounds calls for numerous trees to
be planted in all areas of the fairgrounds.

But in addition, there are some technological solutions that may reduce sound levels as
well.

We suggest lining the entire circumference of the track with sound suppression panels.

Figure 22- Race track lined with sound suppressors

These suppressor panels are the same type of panels used at airports and railway
stations to dampen sound and are generally quite effective in reducing the decibel level.

In addition to the track itself, we also suggest that the roof of the grandstand could be
lined with additional suppressor panels, and that the wooden fences at the north end of
the track be replaced with suppressor panels as well.

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Figure 23- Additional sound suppressors

While there is no magic solution to this that will provide total silence, we feel that this is
the best of available options for reduction of sound not only from race activities, but
also from use of the grandstand as an entertainment venue.8

Safety and Security

In Markin Consulting’s assessment, at least one stakeholder in the fairgrounds
expressed concern about crime and safety at the fairgrounds.

Also, in opening up and encouraging community use and involvement such as the
greenway path, additional security would be desirable.

We offer a proposal for a low-cost, high yield solution to this: negotiate with Metro
Police to man a sub-station on the fairgrounds property.

We do not envision a full service police station, but rather a small office that could
dispatch and administer police activity in the local area and establish a visible presence.
It could be something as simple as one of the temporary offices used by banks and
construction firms.

8
For more information see http://hlhwalls.com/index.php/Products/STC-32-Heavy-Wall-Noise-
Barrier.html
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The location would need to be along the main thoroughfare to meet the primary
purpose of “showing the flag” that a police presence is nearby.

Figure 24- Proposed Metro Police substation

There is a small “odd” lot that we feel would be most suitable where Smith Street
crosses (or actually dead ends). It’s in a high visibility area not only from the street,
but from most areas of the fairgrounds.

In our proposal of widening Wedgewood (Walsh) and installing a median strip, Smith
Street becomes a “crossover” area as well as access to the mid-area of the fairgrounds.
Therefore this location would offer access in either direction for police vehicles as well
as direct access to the fairgrounds.

Also, it’s location at the edge of a small end piece of parking area would not incur much
loss of parking space.

Fairgrounds Bus Service

To make the fairgrounds and all of its activities more accessible to the public, we
recommend that a bus stop be installed near the intersection of Wilson Drive.

We feel that this would improve attendance, especially with the current gas situation
(which looks to be permanent). It would allow shuttle busses to be run during large
events, especially “fair week”, and could easily be integrated into the regular schedule
of the Nolensville Road bus route.

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Figure 25- Bus stop at Wilson and Wedgewood (in parking lot)

This would also open up parking areas, and ease traffic congestion during peak
activities.

What we suggest is very simple. Just put a bus stop in the parking lot near Wilson
Drive. Busses would access the bus stop from the Smith Street entrance to the main
parking area.

This bus stop could be an “as needed” detour from the Nolensville Road route, and
should run a full schedule during fair week, and hourly runs on Saturdays and Sundays
to service the flea market and other events. This would provide direct access to the
fairgrounds from the downtown bus terminal, and thus to the entire city of Nashville.

The only things required to implement this proposal is the construction of a bus stop
and the cooperation of the Metro Transit Authority.

Alternative Power Sources

This has not only become a “buzz word” during the past few months, but it is also a
viable way for the fairgrounds to offset a large portion of operational costs, and
perhaps even make a profit from the effort.

The fairgrounds has literally acres of rooftops, all unobstructed by trees or other
buildings, and all could easily be fitted with solar collector cells.

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This is also an area where the cost of implementation could be offset by assistance
from government agencies.

Figure 26- Solar collector panels on rooftops

The U.S. Department of Energy through its Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Program9 provides grants to local communities for the development of alternative
power sources. Some of this funding is also administered by the State Energy Program.

A program to acquire solar energy capabilities would also fit into the program
announced on May 8, 2008 by Governor Bredesen for the state’s energy task force.
One of the key goals of that group is to lead the way by installing alternative power in
as many government owned facilities as possible, as soon as possible. The fairgrounds
could easily become a showcase for the governor’s program.

In addition to solar power, wind power should also be investigated. The fairgrounds sit
in an excellent location for wind power generators. However, we understand there may
be some noise involved with this equipment, and that aspect should be determined
before proceeding.

RV Parking Area
We feel that major improvement of this area could turn it into a profit point for the
fairgrounds.

9
http://www.eere.energy.gov/
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Viewing the earlier photo, The View from Wingrove Street, this area is marked by
broken pavement, steel guardrails, and bare dirt. Certainly not a place someone would
choose as a destination unless they’re working the flea market, midway, or some other
event held at the fairgrounds.

But with some beautification, we feel that this could actually be turned into a
“destination” spot where people merely visiting Nashville could, and would park.

Plant some trees, put up a picnic shelter or two, put in actual stone retaining walls on
the terraces (instead of dirt banks)—in other words, just fix the place up.

We understand that the pricing for the use of parking there is already an excellent
bargain, but the surroundings are too grim to attract visitors except out of necessity.

A Sign of the Times

One small detail that should not be overlooked, and can be implemented immediately is
new signage-- especially of the electronic sort. And this is a proposal that can be
immediately put into place.

We feel the fairgrounds should have the largest animated digital sign possible, fronting
on Nolensville Road and visible from Craighead Street on which to announce events.

Figure 27- Digital Signage

If you’re not sure of the type of sign we refer to, take a stroll up Nolensville Road and
check out all the used car lots!

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These signs are digitally programmable and now only show text, but animations of most
anything you can imagine—from fireworks to butterflies.
These signs catch the eye as well as give information. The animations cause people to
look, and to look longer.

A Little Mental Therapy

General Thoughts
Thus far all we have presented are proposals for the physical body of the fairgrounds.
But the “mental” part must be give a bit of therapy as well. Some of our dream is a
“chicken and the egg” conundrum—we must have some new physical facilities to
support some of our new ideas. But then we need some of the new ideas to support
the physical changes.

Some things like the revamping of the RV park, the police station, and the bus stop can
be introduced almost immediately with relatively little outlay of funds. But burying the
wiring, re-doing the lighting and the parking lots, the greenway, and a newly designed
entrance and fencing will take some hard cash in addition to inspiration.

And we feel that in the past, this inspiration has been lacking, as well as a failure of the
past directors to move the fairgrounds forward.

The Markin Assessment has some suggestions that we would certainly concur with—
statewide participation and promotion, major concerts and spectator events,
showcasing of state products, just to name a few from their list.

We would also agree that these activities need to be developed in conjunction with the
“stakeholders” in the fair activities—the FFA, FHA, Department of Agriculture, Natural
Resources Commission, Tennessee Wildlife, etc.

Let the thinking and imagination run wild. Just as we have presented dreams of a
physical rebirth, devote some dream time to a “mental” rebirth as well.

For example, invite the new Volkswagon plant to have an exhibit showing the public
how VW’s are made. Have the folks from Gibson demonstrate how they make guitars.

Once you have some educational, industrial, and agricultural exhibitors, create a “school
day” at the fair. Let the schools bus their students in, admit them for free and give
them guided visits to the educational parts of the fair—then let them loose for the
afternoon to spend their money on rides and concessions before being bussed back
home.

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After The Fair Is Over
While it’s obvious that some effort is made in “off season” bookings, how much effort is
really put into promoting the fairgrounds as a venue for industrial and trade shows?
With bus shuttles, downtown accommodations and entertainment is only a 10 minute
ride—and with the moderate rental fees of the fairground facilities, this could be offered
as a real bargain to organizations looking for a “deal” on convention or trade show
space.

Opening a Can of Worms

It’s been admitted by all parties that the grandstand area in particular needs some
capital improvement.

However, if the operator is to make any capital improvements, or outlay much in the
way of long-term promotions, it seems that a long-term contract is called for. We can’t
imagine anyone in business who would consent to large promotional outlays or capital
improvements on a contract of only a year—or even five years.

Looking back historically, the track was initially paved when the operator was granted a
10-year contract with a 20-year renewal. This made if financially viable for him to make
the improvements.

And so it is today. To obtain any sort of long-term commitment or substantial capital

outlay, the operator should be give a long term contract. A contract of at least 20
years, if not longer.

Given a long-term contract, it could be contractually required for the operator to work
with the fair board in utilizing the grandstand/race track as an entertainment venue
when not in use for racing purposes.

Would You Put the Dog Out?

We also feel compelled to comment on the recent decision to ban all animal sales at the
fairground.

We feel that this has created a lot of negative publicity, and in the long run can only be
a bad situation. Of course this has a small negative financial impact as well. There are
some vendors who will not participate in the flea market due to this restriction, and it’s
never good to run your customers off.

However, we also realize the humane aspect of this decision.

But let us offer another possibility that may not be quite so negative.

Virtually all animals sold in this country are “home” raised—even thoroughbreds.
Certainly these are not all “puppy farms.” There are also other animals sold at the

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fairgrounds, such as the sugar gliders, that are home raised, although these particular
animals require a license since they are an exotic species.

So it seems that this decision has tossed out the good along with the bad.

May we suggest that the Humane Society provide volunteer inspectors at the flea
markets who would have the authority to ban individual dealers who are exhibiting sick
or obviously mistreated animals?

This would accomplish the goal of discouraging the “puppy farmers” while still allowing
the competent and honest dealers, in all species, to operate their business.

Use of the Grandstand As An Entertainment Venue

We have frankly been baffled as to “why” this is not already implemented. Most State
Fairs seem to make as much from concerts and entertainment events as anything else.

Looking at fairs in Kentucky, Indiana, Iowa and elsewhere, the concerts during their
fairs consist of first-line entertainment stars and have an average ticket cost of over
$50, above the cost of entry into the fair.

Why we in the “Music City” can’t seem to come up with such events for our own fair is
something that needs some attention as well.

Events should be scheduled not only during the Fair, but throughout the year to
maximize this income opportunity.

A Final Challenge
We have presented a detailed set of proposals here that we feel if implemented, could
revitalize both the physical fairgrounds and redirect the thinking of its operations.

However it’s all for naught if everyone who reads this document tosses it and forgets
about it.

So we would like to issue a challenge to the fair board.

This upcoming year is the 100th anniversary of the “official” establishment of these
fairgrounds.10

Therefore we challenge the fair board to undertake a “Project Centennial.” The

purpose of which is to examine, plan, and implement the proposals that would carry us
into the next 100 years.

“Project Centennial” would establish working relationships with the stakeholders

(Department of Agriculture, School Systems, Convention Bureau, Natural Resources

10
Written in 2008 as part of the original proposal.
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Commission, Department of Industry and Trade, Race Officials—anyone who would
contribute to the effort) and solicit ideas and plans.

It would also encourage advanced thinking and new and unusual ideas, the purpose of
which is to make the Tennessee State Fair THE State Fair of Tennessee with wide-
spread appeal and wide-spread attendance.

It would also develop new plans for the non-fair usage of the facility for entertainment,
industry, and trade venues.

It would explore and develop plans for the public usage aspect of the fairgrounds
property, such as the greenway, walking paths, picnic areas, recreational fishing, etc.

It would explore additional sources of income for implementing plans such as the
greenway project, solar energy, etc.

It would work with the stakeholders any other interested members of the public to
implement the plans as soon as they can be accomplished.

We feel that many of the problems being faced today are the result of the lack of
forward thinking in the past. We urge that you do not let the past repeat itself.

Respectfully Submitted

Fairgrounds Heritage Preservation Group

Addendum

Since we originally published this document over a year ago, we’ve made a few
changes based on information that came in later, and a couple of new ideas.

Changes were made to the historical section to add a couple of items we thought
important—the flight of Charles K. Hamilton and the retirement of John K. Gentry.

We also made some major additions to the legal basis and the legislation that governs
the fairgrounds. We also deleted some information that, while technically correct, was
later changed by newer legislation which is now included.

Also we had a few additional ideas, one of which is the utilization of the property. Much
has been said about limits on new buildings due to the flood plain, and the hills on the
property.

However, we feel that a little creativity can help solve those problems too, and one idea
is to build up, instead of out. Below is an illustration of how a building, such as a horse
arena, could be build into a hillside, as well as a new parking deck.

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The arena parking lot would have an elevator at the rear, giving handicap access not

only to the arena itself, but the entire upper level of the fairgrounds.

Figure 28 - New building and parking deck

Planters and additional landscaping has been omitted for visibility in this picture.

This idea would preserve the existing parking area, as well as adding new space with
the deck itself—a substantial increase in parking, while adding a new building at the
same time!

February 8, 2010

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