A Letter to Our Wedgewood Houston Neighbors

July 2025

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

As we approach the final community review for the Merritt and Martin Boutique Hotel Development on July 7th, I wanted to share some factual observations about this project and the process that has brought us to this point.

The Development Process: By the Numbers

Since March 2023, this project has undergone one of the most extensive community engagement processes in Nashville's recent development history:

• 12+ public meetings over 24 months

• Original proposal: 200 residential units, reduced to 175 units based on community feedback

• Multiple design revisions incorporating neighborhood input

• June 12, 2025: Planning Commission deferred the project for additional community engagement

• July 7, 2025: Final community presentation

• July 24, 2025: Planning Commission official review

Current Site Conditions

The 4-acre development site at the corner of Merritt and Martin currently contains:

• Vacant trailer park facilities

• Barbed wire fencing

• No active economic contribution to the neighborhood

• Designation as "blighted" property in planning documents

Project Components (Final Proposal)

Hotel: ~150-key boutique hotel with rooftop amenities
Residential: 175 units
Commercial: Ground-floor retail for neighborhood-serving businesses
Historic Preservation: Adaptive reuse of existing vintage millworks building
Infrastructure: Updated traffic and parking solutions based on community input

Community Impact Assessment Findings

The updated community impact assessments, revised following the June Planning Commission meeting, address:

• Traffic flow and parking adequacy

• Infrastructure capacity

• Economic impact on existing businesses

• Integration with existing neighborhood character

• Public safety considerations

Documented Community Feedback Integration

The development team has provided documentation showing how community input influenced project revisions:

• Architecture: Design modifications to better complement existing neighborhood structures

• Scale: Reduction in residential units from 200 to 175

• Traffic: Enhanced parking and traffic flow solutions

• Community Benefits: Expanded ground-floor retail space for local businesses

Community Leadership Engagement

Throughout this process, community leaders have been working closely with the SomeraRoad Project Team and Council Member Terry Vo to ensure neighborhood priorities are addressed and community concerns are incorporated into the project development.

Planning Commission Context

The June 12, 2025 Planning Commission hearing included:

• Nearly two dozen public speakers

• Staff recommendation for approval

• Planning Commission prepared to approve the project after determining it satisfied public policy requirements

• Council Member Terry Vo's request for a deferral to allow additional community dialogue

• Unanimous vote to defer for two meetings

Comparative Development Analysis

This project represents urban infill development, which planning experts generally prefer over suburban sprawl because it:

• Utilizes existing infrastructure

• Supports walkability and transit

• Preserves undeveloped land outside urban areas

• Concentrates growth in already-developed areas

Economic Impact Data

The project is projected to generate:

• Construction jobs during development phase

• Permanent employment in hotel and retail operations

• Increased property tax revenue for Metro Nashville

• Customer base for existing neighborhood businesses

July 7th Meeting Agenda

The final community presentation will include:

• Updated architectural renderings

• Traffic and parking impact analysis

• Community benefit assessments

• Economic impact projections

• Time for community questions and input

Planning Commission Process

Following the July 7th community meeting, the Planning Commission will:

• Review all community input from the 24-month engagement process

• Consider updated project plans

• Evaluate compliance with zoning and planning requirements

• Vote on the development proposal

Factual Considerations for Community Review

As you prepare for the July 7th meeting, consider these documented facts:

• The current site contributes no positive economic or social value to the neighborhood

• The development team has demonstrated responsiveness to community feedback through documented plan revisions

• This represents one of Nashville's most community-engaged development processes

• The project includes preservation of historic architecture rather than demolition

• Ground-floor retail provides opportunities for neighborhood-serving businesses

Information Sources

All project documents, community meeting minutes, and impact assessments are available for public review. The Planning Commission meeting recordings from June 12th provide additional context on the decision-making process.

Your Participation

The July 7th meeting provides an opportunity to:

• Review final project plans

• Ask questions about specific project elements

• Provide input for Planning Commission consideration

• Engage with neighbors about community priorities

Next Steps Timeline

July 7, 6:00 PM: Final community presentation (Fort Negley Visitor Center)
July 24: Planning Commission official review
Following Planning Commission action: Implementation timeline dependent on approval

Community Engagement Impact

Regardless of the Planning Commission's decision, this process has demonstrated that sustained, organized community engagement can meaningfully influence development outcomes. The documented changes to this project provide a template for future neighborhood involvement in development processes.

Conclusion

The July 7th meeting represents the culmination of 24 months of community engagement. Whether you support, oppose, or remain undecided about this project, your participation in this final review contributes to the democratic process of community development.

The facts presented in this letter are drawn from public records, Planning Commission documents, and community meeting materials. I encourage you to attend the July 7th presentation to review the complete project information and form your own conclusions

Community Meeting Details: Date: Sunday, July 7th, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Fort Negley Visitor Center
Open to: All Wedgewood Houston residents and business owners

Project documents and community meeting records are available for review at [contact information]

PEACH YO’ SELF SUMMER FESTIVAL

Experience Nashville's most beloved summer tradition when the Peach Yo'Self Festival returns to Jackalope Brewing Company on Saturday, July 5th, 2025. This free, family-friendly Nashville beer festival combines craft brewing excellence with nostalgic 90s vibes for an unforgettable Music City celebration.

Free Nashville Beer Festival with 90s Theme

The 2025 Peach Yo'Self Festival transforms Jackalope Brewing's taproom and outdoor spaces into a 90s paradise, featuring exclusive peach-infused craft beers available nowhere else. This all-ages Nashville event runs from noon to midnight, offering something special for every member of the family.

What Makes Peach Yo'Self Festival Special

Exclusive Peach Beer Releases: Sample limited-edition peach craft beers created specifically for this Nashville festival. Jackalope Brewing Company's innovative brewers craft unique peach-infused varieties that celebrate Tennessee's summer flavors.

Live Nashville Music: Local Nashville artists perform throughout the day, showcasing the city's legendary music scene alongside craft beer culture. The festival stage features diverse acts that embody Nashville's musical diversity.

Local Nashville Vendors: The festival marketplace highlights beloved Nashville businesses, including The Peach Truck, known for bringing Georgia's finest peaches to Middle Tennessee. Browse unique local products while enjoying craft beer and live entertainment.

Family-Friendly Nashville Summer Events

Unlike many Nashville beer festivals, Peach Yo'Self Festival welcomes all ages, making it perfect for families seeking quality summer entertainment. The outdoor festival format provides ample space for children to enjoy activities while adults sample craft beers and connect with the Nashville brewing community.

Festival Activities for All Ages

• Interactive 90s-themed entertainment and photo opportunities

• Local vendor marketplace with unique Nashville products

• Continuous live music from noon to midnight

• Family-friendly outdoor atmosphere with plenty of space

• Food vendors featuring Nashville's diverse culinary scene

Jackalope Brewing Company: Nashville's Craft Beer Destination

Since 2011, Jackalope Brewing Company has been a cornerstone of Nashville's craft beer revolution. Located at 701 8th Ave S in the heart of Nashville, this award-winning brewery has built a reputation for innovative brewing techniques and community-focused events like the annual Peach Yo'Self Festival.

The brewery's commitment to using local ingredients and supporting Nashville's creative community makes it a true Nashville institution. Their peach beer series, featured prominently at the festival, represents the perfect marriage of Tennessee agricultural traditions and modern craft brewing innovation.

Plan Your Visit to Nashville's Peach Yo'Self Festival

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, July 5th, 2025

• Time: 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM

• Location: Jackalope Brewing Company, 701 8th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203

• Admission: Free for all ages

• Parking: Street parking and nearby Nashville lots available

Getting to the Festival

Jackalope Brewing Company is conveniently located in downtown Nashville, making it easily accessible by car, rideshare, or public transportation. The brewery's central location puts you minutes away from other Nashville attractions, making it easy to extend your Nashville experience.

Nashville's Best Summer Festival Experience

The Peach Yo'Self Festival represents everything great about Nashville's community spirit: exceptional craft beer, incredible live music, local business support, and family-friendly fun. Whether you're a Nashville local or visiting Music City, this free summer festival offers an authentic taste of Nashville's creative culture.

Join thousands of Nashville residents and visitors for a day celebrating craft beer innovation, local music talent, and the flavors that make Tennessee summers special. The 2025 festival's 90s theme adds an extra layer of nostalgia, encouraging attendees to embrace the decade's iconic style while enjoying Nashville's finest craft beer.

Follow Jackalope Brewing Company @JackalopeNash on social media for festival updates, exclusive content, and behind-the-scenes looks at Nashville's most anticipated summer beer festival.

Experience Nashville like a local at the Peach Yo'Self Festival – where craft beer meets Music City magic every July.

To learn more, visit

https://jackalopebrew.com/events/peach-yoself-sum

Know about other great local events? Send them our way for next month's newsletter.

Wedgewood Houston Farmers Market offers Nashville's most convenient farmers market experience with Wednesday evening hours (4-7 PM) throughout the summer. Located in the hip Wedgewood Houston district, this local Nashville market features fresh Tennessee produce, artisan goods, and authentic community atmosphere. Perfect for after-work shopping, family outings, or exploring Nashville's local food scene.

SAVE THE DATE

The QUAD Party: A Kentucky Derby Celebration in WEHO

Date: Saturday, May 4, 2025 (Tentative)
Time: 3:00 PM until the last horse crosses the finish line
Location: The QUAD - Merritt Avenue, Wedgewood Houston

Don Your Derby Best!

Dust off your fascinator, polish your pocket square, and join your neighbors for an afternoon of Southern sophistication and neighborhood fellowship. This year's QUAD Party celebrates the Kentucky Derby in true Nashville style!

What to Expect:

• Hat contest with neighborhood bragging rights

• Derby-inspired refreshments

• Live streaming of the Kentucky Derby

• Lawn games and entertainment

• Community potluck

• Signature mint juleps

Who's Invited:

All Wedgewood Houston residents are welcome to join the festivities! Bring your family, your friends, and your finest headwear.

Make It a WEHO Weekend!

After the Derby celebrations, continue the festivities at the WEHO Art Crawl, starting at 6:00 PM. Invite your friends and family to experience the best of Wedgewood Houston as our neighborhood transforms into Nashville's premier art destination. With over 20 galleries and studios open for exploration, it's the perfect way to experience why we love to live, work, and play in WEHO!

Hosted By:

Your neighbors on Merritt Avenue

Save the announcement will be distributed to all members of WEHO Social. Formal invitation with full details to follow.

Don't forget your hat – the bigger, the better!

#WEHOCommunity #QUADParty2025 #DerbyDay #WEHOArtCrawl

🌸 Save the Date! 🌸

The Hunt on Merritt

A Wedgewood Houston Tradition

Join us for the 3rd Anniversary of this beloved tradition!

Sunday, April 13th [the week before Easter]

Details coming soon, including RSVP info!

This event is brought to you by the WEHO Social Moms Group and the generosity of our wonderful neighbors.

Hop on over—fun awaits! 🐣

Following your vote for United States President, United States Houston of Representatives, Tennessee House of Representatives, the final ballot item will be for the Transit Improvement Program Referendum.

The plan focuses on improving Nashville, transportation network by creating a more efficient, safe, and accessible Nashville for generations to come.

Founding Members of Wedgwood Houston Social have considered all fact based information and fully support this referendum.

Learn more

SAMPLE BALLOT INFORMATION

Passage of this measure adopted by Ordinance BL2024-427, allows the Metropolitan Government to complete the entire priority sidewalk network when combined with annual capital spending, provide significantly expanded 24-hour public transportation service 365 days a year including frequent service on major routes, add more neighborhood transit centers, improve safety for all roadway users, and upgrade and modernize nearly two-thirds of the city's signalized intersections.

This program's capital cost is estimated to have a current cost of $3,096,000,000. Once construction is complete, the estimated value of recurring annual operating and maintenance costs is approximately $111,000,000. The Metropolitan Transit Authority (WeGo), Nashville Department of Transportation and Multimodal Infrastructure, Metro Planning Department, and Mayor's Office, in partnership with other Metro departments, will undertake implementation of the program.

This program will be funded by federal grants, revenues from transportation system fares, debt, and a sales tax surcharge of 0.5%. The tax surcharge will end once all debt issued for the transit improvement program has been paid and the Metropolitan Council determines by resolution that the revenues from the tax surcharges are no longer needed for operation of the program.

https://web.go-vote-tn.elections.tn.gov/ballot/list?date=2024-11-05&name=General+Election

September Social | introducing Hagan + Chestnut

Hosted by: Wedgewood Houston Social (WEHO Social)

Date: September 2024

Time: 6:00 PM Social, 6:30 PM Program

Location: Zeitgeist Gallery, co-located with Manuel Zeitlin Architecture

Event Description: Join us for an informative and engaging evening as we welcome Tim Johnson from Material Ventures, the developer of the Hagan + Chestnut project. This event is a fantastic opportunity for the Wedgewood Houston community to learn about the latest updates on this key gateway property and to provide valuable input on the future development plans.

Agenda:

1. Welcome and Introduction

   • Brief introduction by WEHO Social organizers

   • Overview of the evening’s agenda

2. Guest Speaker Presentation

   • Presentation by Tim Johnson from Material Ventures

   • Topic: “Rethinking Mixed-Use”

   • Insights into the innovative design and future development plans for the 1.7-acre Hagan + Chestnut property

3. Community Input Session

   • Open floor for residents to ask questions and provide input

   • Discussion on the future development programming currently underway

4. Networking and Socializing

   • Opportunity for attendees to mingle and discuss the project further

   • Light refreshments provided

About the Developer:

• Material Ventures: Known for their forward-thinking approach, Material Ventures is dedicated to creating sustainable and community-focused developments. Tim Johnson, a key figure at Material Ventures, brings a wealth of experience and a passion for innovative urban planning. For more information, visit Material Ventures.

About the Architects:

• Manuel Zeitlin Architects: With a deep passion for Wedgewood Houston, Manuel Zeitlin Architects have been instrumental in shaping the neighborhood’s unique character. Their dedication to preserving the area’s charm while introducing modern, functional spaces aligns perfectly with the community’s vision for the future.

Project Status:

• Location: Wedgewood Houston, Nashville,

• Status: Under Design

Additional Information:

• Contact: [Contact information]

• Website: Material Ventures

Wedgewood Houston Social (WEHO Social) is a community group dedicated to fostering connections and engagement among residents of the Wedgewood Houston neighborhood. Through regular events and activities, WEHO Social aims to build a strong, vibrant, and inclusive community.

We look forward to seeing you there and hearing your valuable input!

Guest Speaker will be announced 30 days before the Monthly Social.

SOCIAL is a new initiative that aims to foster a sense of community and belonging among the residents of Wedgewood+Houston. We enable various events and activities that cater to the diverse interests and needs of our neighbors, such as meet-ups, book clubs, yoga classes, potlucks, movie nights, and more. SOCIAL also provides a platform for neighbors to share their skills, talents, resources, and ideas with each other, creating a network of mutual support and collaboration. SOCIAL believes that by bringing neighbors together, we can enhance the quality of life, social cohesion, and civic engagement in our urban environment. SOCIAL welcomes anyone who lives in the neighborhood or nearby areas to join us and become part of this vibrant and dynamic community.

Redefining Urban.

Development Series | Fort Negley Master Plan

Join Your neighbors at this months Wedgewood Houston Social… As we gather community input and show the most recent vision for fort Nagley.

Developer Series| Meet Your Neighbors & Discover What's Next for Wedgewood Houston

Join us for an evening of community connection and exclusive insights into the exciting future of our neighborhood. We are thrilled to announce that developer AJ Capital has agreed to provide an update to each of their projects underway in Wedgewood Houston.  This is the 3rd installment of our Development Series, to provide the current status of commercial and large-scale residential projects in our neighborhood. Don’t miss a chance to hear information about the new establishments coming to our area in the upcoming wave of development.

Why you shouldn't miss this:

1.  Get the scoop: Be among the first to know about the latest developments and businesses coming.

2. Connect with neighbors: Mingle with fellow residents and build your local network.

3. Enjoy the space: Relax in the cozy Jackalope Brewery Loft with a drink (purchased downstairs at the taproom) and friendly conversation.

4. Sixty Minutes: We are committed to starting and ending on-time.

Please help us provide a great experience for everyone by letting us know if you can attend by clicking the blue button below.