RUTHERFORD COUNTY, Tenn. — Long-term planning for Rutherford County government facilities appears to be seeing an increased focus on adaptive reuse rather than large-scale land acquisition, as county leaders weigh the future of several high-profile properties in and around the historic Murfreesboro Square.
Among the most visible is the former Goldstein's building, located directly across from and next to the Rutherford County Courthouse. The iconic structure traces its origins to around 1900, when it was founded by William Goldstein as a family department store that became a cornerstone of downtown commerce... That was County Commissioner Craig Harris. Over time, the building transitioned from retail use to housing county offices. In later years, restoration efforts removed subsequent façade alterations, revealing original architectural details and solidifying the building’s status as a historic landmark on the Public Square.
Today, the Goldstein’s building at One South Public Square, contains a mix of office uses that includes the Rutherford County Election Commission and County Building and Codes. Officials with the county have indicated that, as space demands continue to rise, the structure could continue to serve in a public function. But for the building to be properly utilized, would likely involve renovation and modernization of the interior while continuing to preserve the historic exterior, aligning with broader goals to protect downtown Murfreesboro’s character.
At the same time, Rutherford County has taken initial steps toward acquiring the former Bank of America Building, with the first phase of the purchase already approved by the County Commission. Preliminary discussions have identified the property as a candidate for administrative offices and more, easing space constraints in existing facilities. Negotiations are currently underway and the purchase price that began at $9-million, has been reduced to $8.2-million… Officials have been working with Architect Bart Kline on renovation ideas and design layouts that are estimated to cost the county another $8-million, if elected officials continue to move forward with the project…The entire project is still being examined and some commissioners are voicing their concerns…That was Commissioner Rick Hall. Despite the high price tag on the 29-thousand square foot structure, several county leaders have voiced the building’s close proximity to the historic county courthouse—only 336 feet away—makes it a strategic location for consolidating multiple county departments into a single, centralized office hub. Currently, confirmation on final plans, more detailed renovation costs, and long-term use are still subject to additional review and public discussion (See previous article on Bank of America building HERE).
These property considerations come amid the sustained growth across Rutherford County. Population increases have only intensified demand for new schools, expanded public safety services, a larger county jail and additional administrative space.
Commissioner Harris emphasized that past negotiations to buy the old State Farm Building may have fallen through in years past, but he feels it’s worth taking a second look at… The massive building sits at the corner of Memorial Blvd. and DeJarnette Lane in Murfreesboro.
Looking ahead, county planners project continued population growth, though at varying rates depending on economic conditions and housing development… That growth is expected to keep pressure on school construction schedules, judicial capacity, and county services overall. Rather than pursuing costly greenfield projects, Rutherford County appears increasingly focused on strategic acquisitions and renovations, particularly within existing urban areas, to meet long-term needs while balancing fiscal responsibility.
