Vanderbilt University is taking the next steps in the development of its vision for the “Innovation Neighborhood”. The 150-year-old institution will look to transform 40+ acres into a clear physical center of gravity for Nashville’s and Tennessee’s innovation ecosystem. Vanderbilt’s objectives are to advance its translational research, to grow new ventures, to deepen its corporate partnerships, and to create a dynamic and creative mixed-use neighborhood.
The long-term vision is for the plan to evolve with the changing needs of the University and surrounding community as its phased overtime. The site is situated between West-End corridor and the University’s Athletic Village; it is bounded by West End Avenue, Natchez Trace, 31st Avenue South, and Vanderbilt Place.
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Located on the West side of the main campus, the site encompasses 37 parcels , has 5 distinct zoning subdistricts, an overall max building height of 35 floors, and 1 Planned Unit Development (PUD). The plan notes that current zoning directs density and taller building heights towards the adjacent historic HillsboroWest End neighborhood. The Specific Plan filing, however, allows planners to reallocate that height and density more appropriately within the site and in relation to its urban context.
The submitted plan offers a first look into the preliminary framework of the new mixed-use development. It provides a high-level context into the development districts, the open space network & character, multimodal network, and future streets.
A request has been submitted to rezone from ORI, ORI-A, MUL-A, SP, MUG-A to SP zoning for the various properties that make up the site. Once approved, the request will advance the mixed-use development on the 43.16-acres site. The request was made by Hastings Architecture on behalf of Vanderbilt University. Here’s the quick rundown:
Innovation Neighborhood
Vanderbilt University
| What’s Now: | Varies |
| What’s Next: | Mixed-use |
| Owner: | Vanderbilt University |
| Planners: | Bjarke Ingles Group |
| Hastings | |
| Field Operations | |
| Max Height | 35 Floors |
Development Districts
The project includes 5 Subdistricts noted as A-E. Subdistrict A primarily fronts 31st Avenue South and has a max height of 12 stories. This subdistrict requires a set-back along 31st Avenue South, and is the only set-back requirement proposed. Subdistrict B primarily fronts Vanderbilt Place with a max height of 20 stories. Subdistrict C Primarily fronts Natchez Trace with a height of 25 Stories. Subdistricts D&E primarily front West End Avenue with heights capped at 30 & 35 stories respectively.
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Open Space
The open space network is anchored by two main green spaces(The Square & The Meander) and is tied together with similar landscape character across the site. The 1.2 acre square is proposed as the social heart of the project. It is envisioned to include a variety of unique spaces and places that encourage collaboration and connection. It will also provide connections to the Meander which links the larger open space network and neighborhood.
The Innovation Neighborhood is tied together by a 1.5 acre meandering path. The Meander links existing pedestrian thoroughfares into campus and to the broader community. The path will promote pedestrian prioritization and a sense of discovery and immersion. Slide the conceptual image below for context within the Meander.
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Road Infrastructure
The Specific Plan proposes a restructured street framework. It introduces new pedestrianized streets, supports multimodal movement, service, and emergency access. There are also new and realigned streets that enhance block connectivity, improve circulation, as well as enhancements to existing ROWs. The plan has an enhanced pedestrian realm which will promote safety for people as well as walkable and activated sidewalks.
The plan is scheduled for the 1/8/2026 Metro Planning Commission agenda.
