Rediscover East! Implementation

Impact of the R/UDAT since July 1999

• Days after the R/UDAT an industrial property owner was inspired to build a river overlook on Davidson Drive with picnic benches for his employees and the public
  
  
• The number one R/UDAT Recommendation has been accomplished- the formation of a Community Council. Rediscover East! includes representation from all of the established neighborhoods, Public Housing Associations, Businesses, Churches, Social Services, and Schools. The initial goal of this representative council is to oversee the implementation of the R/UDAT Plan.
  
  
• MDHA was granted a $500,000 Federal Block Grant to be used as seed money for implementing a portion of the R/UDAT plan.
  
  
• Planning Commission Urban Zoning Project (indirect outcome of the R/UDAT) - the Tornado and the R/UDAT brought to the forefront the problems associated with Nashville's Zoning Ordinance and its effect on urban areas. The Planning Commission has hired a consultant to recommend specific changes to the Zoning Ordinance for urban areas of Nashville.
  
  
• In reaction to the public outcry at the R/UDAT and to the recommendations of the R/UDAT Plan, Kroger has undergone an East Nashville Neighborhood Market Research Survey utilizing diverse focus groups. Kroger has also announced a full interior renovation project which will soon be underway and has hired a Customer Service Manager for the Eastland Kroger.
  
  
• The Nashville Urban Design Forum is planning on assisting MDHA with further development of the Cayce Homes recommendations.
  
  
• MTA announced the East Nashville Extension to their Phase "A" - Light Rail Study
  
  
• Rediscover East!'s first Public Forum was held in January 2000.
  
  
• MDHA is hiring a consultant to do Design Guidelines for both the East Bank and Five Points Redevelopment Districts and to do a Streetscape Improvements Plan for Main Street
  
  
• Property Audit - The Codes and Zoning Committee of Rediscover East! has initiated a neighborhood property audit to identify problem properties, slum lords, and owners that need help.
  
  
• MTA is running a trial East Nashville Trolley Route for several months beginning in March 2000
  
  
• Housing - A Not-For-Profit is being established to monitor the condition of housing and possible means of acquisition. This group will also monitor affordable and market rate housing availability.
  
  
• Rediscover East! has been offered a building in Five Points at approximately 1/3 of the asking price
  
  
• Public Department Heads and Representatives are actively involved in Rediscover East! implementation committees.
  
  
• Parks and Greenways Master Gardeners Society has adopted Rediscover East! as a project.
  
  
• Neighborhoods have begun annexing other areas including Main Street and Gallatin Road.
  
  
• Rediscover East has received a Special Award from the Excellence in Development Committee and a National American Institute of Architects Presidential Citation for their Rediscover East!'s commitment to and prompt initiatives toward implementing the R/UDAT Plan.
  
  
• Mayor Bill Purcell has recognized the Rediscover East! organization as the model for community development in Nashville.