MURFREESBORO, TN - This Wednesday afternoon, December 3, 2025, promises to be a pivotal moment for Murfreesboro’s future. At 4:30pm, Clarius Partners will take center stage at a Joint Conceptual Workshop with the City of Murfreesboro’s Planning Commission and City Council. The big topics? Proposals for developing land along NW Broad Street and I-840. Another part of that join session deals with new life in developing the downtown Methodist Church land on W. College St.
NW Broad at I-840 Development
Craig Dannegger from Clarius Partners, LLC and Matt Taylor with SEC, Inc. are set to present their vision for Clarius Park—a project that’s stirring up plenty of local interest.
Developers say Clarius Park could be a game-changer for Murfreesboro, bringing a wave of public and economic benefits. They’re talking about direct and indirect economic growth, sparking future investments, and boosting property values across the region. The project aims to balance residential development, create an employment center to support the local workforce, and even reduce the number of residents commuting out of town for work. Plus, with new employees and visitors, local businesses could see more diners and shoppers.
Tax revenue is another highlight, with developers noting that the cost to provide services to industrial developments is just 60% of the actual revenue generated. Infrastructure improvements, like better boulevard connectivity and access to adjacent parcels, are also part of the plan. And when it comes to job creation, the numbers are impressive: Clarius Park could mean anywhere from 202 to 2,017 new jobs, with a median estimate of 675 positions based on local demand.
New Life in Downtown’s old Methodist Church Property
This Wednesday afternoon’s workshop will also revisit the development of the old downtown Methodist Church property at East College and N. Spring Streets. After years of stalled progress and even condemnation proceedings, things are finally moving forward. Mayor Shane McFarland recently announced on WGNS that the city’s need for office space is driving renewed interest in the site. The city is considering purchasing or leasing up to 17,363 square feet on the first floor or 15,184 square feet on the second floor to meet department needs through 2033.
The district attorney’s office is also eyeing about 15,000 square feet, though only as a lease, with their current lease expiring in 2030.
The revised proposal for One East College, LLC drops the boutique hotel, but increases residential options, with more condos and multi-family units than before.
Financing discussions include tax incremental financing for the parking deck and HUD-backed loans for multifamily housing. The historic First Methodist church building is in good shape, with routine inspections required to keep it that way. Possible uses for the renovated church space include a restaurant, private event center, or public cultural arts venue.
As the city prepares for this important workshop, residents and officials alike are watching closely. Will these projects reshape Murfreesboro’s landscape and economy? Stay tuned—Wednesday’s meeting could set the stage for big changes ahead. NewsRadio WGNS will keep you informed.
