The East Bank Development Authority meeting held on February 26, 2025, focused on significant developments regarding Nashville's East Bank area, including the establishment of a special district and discussions on affordable housing and transit integration.

The meeting highlighted the recent legislation that created a special district for the East Bank, aimed at enhancing management functions in the area. This new approach is seen as beneficial given the unique constraints and opportunities present on the East Bank. Participants expressed interest in delving deeper into the strategies associated with this development.

A major point of discussion was affordable housing. Concerns were raised about the current affordability levels, particularly regarding the 60% Area Median Income (AMI) benchmark, which some attendees deemed unreasonable for many residents. The conversation emphasized the need for more affordable housing options, specifically targeting the 20-40% AMI range. The master development agreement for the first 30 acres includes a 99-year lease aimed at maintaining affordability, with benchmarks set by the affordable housing task force.

The meeting also addressed the integration of the mayor's transit plan with the East Bank vision. Officials noted that the transit plan aligns well with existing development goals, particularly the establishment of new connections and improvements to major streets in the area, including bike lanes and sidewalks to enhance accessibility.

Additionally, the planning department discussed zoning regulations for the East Bank. Currently, zoning is focused on the first 30 acres, with future developments potentially extending these regulations. The approach is cautious, allowing for adjustments based on evolving city priorities and design directions.

Water safety was underscored as a top priority in the East Bank development discussions, with officials collaborating with the Corps of Engineers to address flood risks and ensure a safe environment for future developments.

Overall, the meeting underscored Nashville's commitment to thoughtful development on the East Bank, balancing growth with community needs and safety considerations. Further discussions and detailed planning are expected as the project progresses.