CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – Cal Wray, Executive Director of the Clarksville-Montgomery County Economic Development Council, was the guest speaker at the Clarksville Rotary Club lunch on Dec. 2.
Wray gave an update on the five-year strategic plan for economic developments in Clarksville.
He provided an analysis for each of the categories. Regarding infrastructure, he said, “There is an opportunity to expand and improve roads, and I definitely think that’s something that needs to happen.”
The next category covered was the business climate in Clarksville. Wray said Clarksville has an opportunity to add diversity to its industries. One of the concerns of the council is the threat of Austin Peay graduates leaving the Clarksville community for other professional opportunities.
Development of an event center in Clarksville was mentioned, however location and funding have not been finalized for further development at this time. The two locations that are being proposed are the Riverside Dr. and Exit 4 areas. There was also a proposal for funding by increasing hotel tax, but it has not had traction because the location has still not been finalized.
Wray was also asked about the demolition of the Hemlock site.
“They are taking down chemical structures, buildings, and cable trays and there is interest in the site,” he said.
When asked what the site would be used for in the future he said that information on development would be released soon.
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