by Tim Wetzel
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - At the former Starwood Amphitheater, weeds and rocks now replace seats and concessions. But, there's an effort underway to bring live music back to the site which closed in 2007.
"What we are asking for is the opportunity to look at an outdoor music venue," said Ken Renner of Vastland Companies.
Renner's company wants the city to change the zoning rules for the site to once again include live concerts.
Vastland purchased the property in 2007. It originally planned to develop a retail and residential development on the tract of land but when the economy took a dive, so did those plans. Now, the company is considering reopening the site as a live music venue along with retail stores.
"What we would be looking at would be much smaller," said Renner. "It would really be a compliment to a shopping area."
Antioch residents said the return of concerts could be a good thing.
"Right now it's vacant and an eyesore," said Metro Councilman Sam Coleman. "Anything would be better for our community."
"I think it's a good idea," said resident Mercedes Johnson. "Somebody from my generation would like to have another place to go for entertainment."
Vastland officials say they would also like to develop a computer data center on property which could bring more jobs to the Antioch area.
Also at Thursday nights' meeting, a plan was unveiled to breathe life into the nearby Hickory Hollow Mall.
City officials want to put a library, health clinic and community center inside the mall. The new facilities will be in the former JC Penney and Steve and Barry's store.
FEMA is now leasing the former JC Penney site, but the federal government will move out soon. City officials hope to move in sometime next year.
Email: twetzel@newschannel5.com
