Franklin City Council approves hotel and parking garage at Factory District

In the heart of Franklin, Tennessee, the Planning Commission convened on February 27, 2025, to discuss pivotal developments that could reshape the community's landscape. Under the warm glow of city hall lights, members deliberated on two significant rezoning ordinances that promise to enhance local infrastructure and community engagement.

The first item on the agenda was the consideration of Ordinance 2024-50, which sought to rezone 1.95 acres currently housing Christ Fellowship Church from a mixed residential district to a civic institutional district. This change aligns with the long-standing use of the property and the recommendations of the Envision Franklin plan, which emphasizes the importance of institutional uses that do not disrupt surrounding neighborhoods. The church, a fixture in the community for decades, received unanimous support from the commission, with members expressing their approval through a roll call vote.

Next, the commission turned its attention to Ordinance 2024-51, a more extensive proposal involving the rezoning of 20.15 acres at the Factory at Franklin. This initiative aims to revise the existing planned district entitlements, reducing residential density while introducing a new hotel with 120 rooms. The Factory at Franklin, a historic industrial site since 1929, is poised for transformation into a vibrant destination that blends hospitality with the area's rich heritage.

The proposed hotel, designed to complement the historic architecture of the factory, will feature a two-story facade stepping up to three stories, ensuring it harmonizes with the existing structures. The development plan also includes a new parking garage and improved traffic flow, with a signalized intersection planned at Daniels Drive to enhance pedestrian safety.

Public art is a key component of the Factory district's vision, with plans to incorporate artistic elements that reflect the community's character. The commission noted the importance of public art in fostering a sense of place and encouraging community interaction.

As the meeting concluded, the commission's recommendations for both ordinances were forwarded to the Board of Mayor and Aldermen, setting the stage for future discussions that will shape Franklin's growth. With these developments, the city is not only preserving its historical roots but also paving the way for a more connected and vibrant community.