The City of Jackson has announced a partnership with JLL Project and Development Services (PDS), to spearhead development of the Jackson Plaza Events and Entertainment District. This ambitious project is aimed at transforming the now closed Jackson Plaza shopping center into a premier sports arena, hotel, convention center, and retail hub. With the anticipated arrival of Blue Oval City, this new district positions Jackson as a vibrant, prominent mid-size city in West Tennessee. The development site is located at 50 Old Hickory Boulevard, approximately 90 minutes from Nashville on Interstate 40.
Shown for context only.
“We are excited to see the potential opportunities JLL identifies for this critical site as we seek to bring new life to the center of our city,” said Mayor Scott Conger.
Working alongside the City and community, JLL is conducting an in-depth market analyses that builds upon the work by the project’s land planner LRK. The findings will be used to determine the viability of the proposed developments, perform cost management strategies for a financial package, and conduct an economic impact analysis.
“It’s an honor to partner with the current administration to help bring the Jackson Plaza development to life. The unique character of Jackson makes this project particularly significant. We’re excited to work alongside the City and connect with local residents as we embark on this transformative venture. We hope to keep this momentum going on many more projects to come.”
Allie Burford VP Project & Development Services
JLL
The Old Hickory Boulevard / Jackson Plaza small area plan is among four focal points identified in the One Jackson Civic Master Plan, which highlights the need to revitalize and repurpose core commercial districts. Historically, Jackson Plaza and nearby Old Hickory Mall have been central to retail activity in the region, serving as a commercial nexus for decades.
This redevelopment initiative not only includes the Jackson Plaza area but extends to surrounding office, medical, and retail centers along the Highland Avenue and Old Hickory Boulevard corridors, connected by an extensive road network that can support future densification.
Shown for context only.
While JLL’s feasibility study is specifically focused on Jackson Plaza shopping center, the small area plan also includes a reimagined retail experience at Old Hickory Mall across the street. The conceptual plans (shown above) for the Old Hickory Mall site includes a mix of residential, retail and office mixed uses. Here’s the quick rundown:
Jackson Plaza
50 Old Hickey Blvd
| What’s Now | Vacant Retail Center |
| What’s Next | Mixed-Use |
| Owner | City Of Jackson |
| Planner | LRK |
| Feasibility | JLL |
| Hotel | 280 Keys |
| Meeting | 75,000 SF |
| Arena | 6,500 Seats |
| Parking | 700 Spaces |
Shown for context only.
Jackson Plaza will be anchored by a 140,000 SF arena/event hall that will feature space to accommodate sporting events, trade shows, and concerts. Sporting events such as hockey will accompany 6,500 fixed seats; concerts would accommodate 7,600 seats, which includes seats on the floor; and total 40,000 SF of trade show space.
Shown for context only.
Connected to the arena/event hall Is a proposed 20,000 SF grand ballroom and 12,000 SF Jr ballroom which can be converted to meeting rooms. The programs currently calls for a proposed 75,000 SF of meeting facilities for the project.
There is a total of 280 planned 3-4 star hotel keys across two buildings. The program anchors the development with a 200-key select service+ hotel with 8,000 SF of demisable meeting space; and an 80-key boutique hotel opportunity.
Shown for context only.
The pedestrian experience will transform the now parking lot into a vibrant entry plaza along Old Hickory Blvd with festival lawn, tree lined sidewalks, and feature retail and restaurant space. There is also a 700-car parking facility, event loading area, and bio retention pond situated on Rosenblum Drive.
Over the next year, JLL will refine the feasibility report to determine the most effective uses for the property in light of market conditions, demographic trends, and regional employment opportunities such as Blue Oval City, located just 20 minutes from downtown Jackson.The City of Jackson remains committed to providing strategic infrastructure and regulatory support to foster this vision, while largely deferring development activities to private sector partners.
For additional information on the Jackson Plaza Events and Entertainment District, click the link (Here).
Be sure to subscribe for more on this and other Developments In & Around Jackson and Nashville!
