Smyrna Council unveils ambitious downtown redevelopment and new aquatics facility plans

Under the warm glow of Smyrna's city hall, community members gathered for a special called meeting, eager to hear updates on the city's future. Mayor and council members welcomed attendees with gratitude, emphasizing the importance of public engagement in shaping Smyrna's development.

The evening's agenda was packed with exciting news, particularly the announcement of a new restaurant, L and L Hawaiian Barbecue, set to open next month. This establishment, owned by a local family, promises to bring a taste of Hawaii to the heart of Smyrna, further enriching the community's culinary landscape.

A significant focus of the meeting was the ambitious downtown redevelopment project, which aims to transform the First Baptist Church property into a vibrant mixed-use area. Economic Development Director Andrea Worthy shared that the city had received 15 proposals from various firms to assist in this planning process, ultimately selecting MKSK, a firm with extensive experience in community engagement and urban planning. Worthy outlined a comprehensive public engagement strategy, including workshops and online surveys, to ensure that residents' voices are heard throughout the planning stages.

Councilman Travis Lindley highlighted the potential of this project to double the size of Smyrna's downtown, setting the stage for future growth and development. He encouraged community members to actively participate in the upcoming discussions, emphasizing that their input is crucial for the project's success.

In addition to the downtown plans, the council provided updates on several other initiatives. Construction is set to begin on a new public restroom facility near the downtown splash pad, with hopes of completion by mid-year. The existing splash feature will be redesigned to enhance usability for families, while a new playground will cater to children of all ages.

The meeting also addressed the long-awaited Tolleson Pool rebuild. After extensive community input, the council decided to invest significantly in a new outdoor aquatics facility, which will include separate competition and recreational pools, a lazy river, and enhanced amenities. This project, estimated to cost between $16 million and $18 million, reflects the city's commitment to providing premier recreational facilities for its residents.

However, not all discussions were met with enthusiasm. The council faced criticism regarding the decision to forgo an indoor aquatics facility at the Igoe Church property due to prohibitive costs. Mayor and council members explained that the financial implications of such a facility would burden future budgets, leading them to prioritize the more feasible Tolleson project instead.

As the meeting concluded, the mayor reiterated the importance of community involvement in shaping Smyrna's future. With numerous projects on the horizon, residents are encouraged to stay engaged and share their thoughts, ensuring that the city's growth reflects the desires and needs of its community. The evening left attendees with a sense of optimism and anticipation for the exciting developments ahead in Smyrna.