The Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC) has reached a deal with the Metro Government of Nashville to move out of the state-owned James K. Polk Cultural Center and across the river to the East Bank.
The agreement, according to Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell’s office, grants Metro up to 30 days of annual access to the new TPAC facility for “educational opportunities and other programming,” and outlines how Metro will share in the infrastructure costs associated with the relocation.
The Metro Nashville Council must now formally approve the deal.
“We are excited about partnering with TPAC and the state to develop a new home for this significant cultural institution on Nashville’s East Bank,” O’Connell said in a statement. “TPAC will have a world class space to bring live theater and other premier events to Nashville, and there will be opportunities for public access.”
Tuesday’s agreement between TPAC and Metro comes years after lawmakers began the effort for relocating TPAC out of the James K. Polk Cultural Center, with the Tennessee General Assembly allocating $500 million for the move.
In order for TPAC to access the state funds set aside for the new facility, it must raise $100 million in private sector donations.
Tennessee House Speaker Cameron Sexton (R-Crossville) commended O’Connell for his efforts to strike a deal with TPAC.
“I appreciate [O’Connell] personally taking over the negotiations with TPAC and getting a deal done. This is a significant milestone for our state and Nashville to compete as a vibrant performing arts community. TPAC will be a valued addition to the east bank and lower broad area that will enhance the entertainment district,” Sexton said.
Tennessee U.S. Senator and gubernatorial candidate Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) also applauded the deal reached between Metro and TPAC, calling it “the right thing for Nashville and for our state.”
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Kaitlin Housler is a reporter at The Tennessee Star and The Star News Network. Follow Kaitlin on X / Twitter.
Image “East Bank Development Project” by Metro Nashville.
