Future

Over the years Belmont University has transformed from Belmont College, to Ward-Belmont School for Women, back to Belmont College, and finally to Belmont University. Belmont strives to continue to grow in a fashion that best suits the surrounding neighborhoods and still serves the campus in the best way possible. Although the school does a tremendous job of detailing and projecting the plan for growth, along with determining how to spend its money when purchasing property, the rate at which the university has grown is not reflected in the updates, or lack thereof, to the Master Development Plan. As Belmont continues to grow, the university's future growth should be carefully planned.

With an average of eighty-two people moving to town every single day, Nashville is currently experiencing growth at an astonishing rate. Multiple aspects unique to the city are responsible for this constant influx of people; its entertainment and leisure possibilities are nearly limitless, it is home to pristine higher education institutions, and its job opportunities are abundant. However, Nashville has some work to do if it wants to sustain its current status. In order to remain America’s “it” city, Nashville city officials need to not only continue to make entertainment, higher education, and job growth priorities, but also restructure its public transportation system and build more hotels.

Adaptive reuse is an investment and like all investments, it takes precious time to pay off.  Economically, it makes more sense to demolish a building than nurture it back to health.  It is true that not all buildings can or should be rescued by adaptive reuse, but there should be more consideration of reuse as an alternative in some neighborhoods. When developers choose to invest in people rather than place, cities will thrive under their care. But in the competitive world of development, an abandoned building’s only hope may be passionate people who live in its midst. As a resident of Nashville – or any city – it is critical to be aware of the ways in which the cityscape shifts and changes over time.

Dubbed “Music City,” Nashville is a music mecca with a rich music history. Located downtown, the Ryman is one of the most sacred and significant stages in the nation. Formerly the home of the Grand Ole Opry the Ryman has a deep history rooted in its veins. As the music industry evolves, the Ryman continues to be a hot spot for entertainment due to several factors including its history, its acoustics, its wide-range of genres, and its ability to create an intimate relationship with fans. No matter how much the entertainment industry changes, the Ryman Auditorium will remain relevant—and will always be a highly desired venue despite the intense competition from larger venues.