The developer of the proposed May Town Center says it is exploring a new location for the bridge that will connect the massive project with downtown Nashville, a move that's meant to mollify local critics.
The May family and adviser Giarratana Development have told state officials that they are considering a connection to Cockrill Bend. The group had originally said it would like to build a bridge across the Cumberland that would connect the development in Bells Bend through the Charlotte Park neighborhood.
The new location would connect May Town Center with the rest of Nashville by linking Old Hickory Boulevard to Centennial Boulevard and Briley Parkway near John C. Tune Airport.
Their original plan, released in February, called for connecting the project to Annex Avenue in Charlotte Park and building a new interchange with Interstate 40.
The move came after meeting with local residents, Metro Councilman Buddy Baker and state Rep. Gary Odom, Tony Giarratana said Tuesday.
Many residents opposedResidents of Charlotte Park believed the original proposal would increase traffic and wreck their neighborhood.
The bridge has been one of the biggest political hurdles to May Town Center, a $4 billion proposal to build offices, stores and condos on 1,400 acres owned by the May family.
Many Bells Bend residents oppose the project, saying it will destroy the pastoral quality of the area.
The Mays and Giarratana say the project's environmental impact will be mitigated by their plan to limit construction to just 453 acres, leaving the rest as open space.
