Struggling 2nd Avenue Businesses in Nashville Battle Long-Term Impact of 2020 Bomb Attack

Persevering amid Challenges

Inside Cerveza Jack’s—a popular Mexican cantina situated on Nashville’s Second Avenue, patrons indulge in a variety of delectable tacos, cheer their favorite sports teams, and tap along to the tune of a George Strait song echoing the vibrant space. However, the inside merriment overshadows a less joyful scene outside the restaurant: The street once lively, now lies quiet and fenced-off, with just the echoing sound of a jackhammer punctuating the otherwise silent atmosphere.

Since the unfortunate bomb incident on Christmas Day 2020, this part of Second Avenue has endured a significant drop in foot traffic, which was only exacerbated by the simultaneous global health crisis. More than three years on, heavily impacted businesses such as Cerveza Jacks are still grappling with declining customer numbers and reduced revenues.

Hope Amid Chaos

Frank Miller, the owner of Cerveza Jack’s, is one such entrepreneur who has been riding this storm. Despite reporting a 60% drop in revenues from the first quarter of 2024 due to the ongoing street renovation works, Miller remains hopeful. “I’ve said that for three years now. And it continues to prove me wrong,” he admits, determined that the worst is behind them. Similarly, Mike Duguay, owner of the neighborhood staple, Mike’s Ice Cream, echoes Miller’s sentiment. He points out a significant decrease in visitors turning onto Second Avenue from Broadway—a vital source of customers for the local businesses.

Attempts at Revitalisation

In response to this persistent issue, initiatives have spurred from different corners of the city. The “Turn the Corner” campaign initiated by the Downtown Partnership aims to promote Second Avenue businesses and bring back the much-needed foot traffic. Metro Council, similarly, proposed a bill designating the area between Broadway and Union as a “Tourist Improvement Zone” until March 2026. This proposal waives application fees and eases the usual permitting process, catalyzing businesses to amplify live performances, build outdoor dining spaces, and sell and advertise from sidewalks.

Miller, however, expressed his reservations about measures like outdoor dining under the current circumstances. “But right now, there’s no place for patio dining,” he points out. Duguay, on the other hand, is optimistic about the proposed changes, eagerly awaiting the day when construction work wraps up.

Looking Forward

The revitalization effort, which began this year and led to the closure for vehicles between Church and Broadway streets, promises to complete by early 2025. Duguay anticipates that day with hope. “By the time this construction is over in January of 2025, we will have not had anything near a normal year for five total years,” he shares.

Conclusion

Despite the turbulence of the past few years, Nashville’s 2nd Avenue businesses remain resilient. As recovery efforts continue and revitalization strategies roll out, the essence of hope remains, illuminating the path towards brighter times ahead.