government
Could Cheekwood be shut down? Here’s what we know about the appeal filed
By Steve Mehling at WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate)
· June 24, 2026
· 5 min read
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - A dispute over Cheekwood Estate & Gardens’ plans to build a new parking facility is now headed to Metro’s Board of Zoning Appeals after nearby residents filed an appeal citing long-running traffic and safety concerns in the Belle Meade and Highlands neighborhoods.Cheekwo...
Key takeaway MacLeod said Cheekwood has had an agreement with Metro Parks since 1981 to use land outside its gates for visitor parking.
Why this matters in The Nashville
The dispute over Cheekwood Estate & Gardens' parking facility has significant implications for the city's cultural landscape. As a major tourist destination and community hub, Cheekwood's potential shutdown would not only affect its employees and visitors but also have a ripple effect on local businesses that rely on the estate's events and exhibitions. The surrounding Belle Meade and Highlands neighborhoods, already concerned about traffic and safety, may see increased congestion if Cheekwood is forced to revert to using Metro Parks land for overflow parking. The Metro Board of Zoning Appeals will need to carefully consider the competing interests and potential consequences of their decision, weighing the need for responsible development against the concerns of nearby residents. The outcome of this appeal will be closely watched by the community, as it could set a precedent for how Nashville balances growth and preservation of its cultural institutions.
About this story
Original reporting by WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) . The Nashville surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: government ·
Published: June 24, 2026 ·
Source: WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) ·
Reading time: 5 min
Get more The Nashville stories like this
Free weekly briefing covering government and other local news. Curated by our editorial team. No spam.
By subscribing you agree to our privacy policy . Unsubscribe anytime.
Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - A dispute over Cheekwood Estate & Gardens’ plans to build a new parking facility is now headed to Metro’s Board of Zoning Appeals after nearby residents filed an appeal citing long-running traffic and safety concerns in the Belle Meade and Highlands neighborhoods.Cheekwo...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 24, 2026 by WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) and curated for The Nashville readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Steve Mehling at WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate). To learn more about how The Nashville selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more government coverage from The Nashville, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
← Back to all news
More government →
Today’s briefing
Subscribe to newsletter