Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Maury County Business
Maury County Business
businessclimate.com/maur y- county
From big box to boutique, Maury County revitalizes downtown retail Newly opened State Route 840 boosts area commerce, distribution potential
Steering Growth
Contents
7 Overview
32 16
All or part of this magazine is printed with soy ink on recycled paper containing 10% post-consumer waste.
20
Energy/technology
Accelerating Innovation
Entrepreneurs find resources, mentors for startups at Northfield business accelerator
24
Logistics
Road Ready
12 16
Business Climate
38
28 38
transportation
Steering Growth
education
34
Retail
Taking Off
livability
Workforce Warriors
42
Health
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Online
Business Climate Education Transportation
Twitter
Keep updated and informed on the latest real-time news, developments and information.
Whats on businessclimate.com/maury-county
Read more about Maury Countys competitive advantages and assets. Explore workforce development and training programs offered by area educational institutions. Learn more about logistics and transportation infrastucture in the area.
From big box to boutique, Maury County revitalizes downtown retail newly opened State route 840 boosts area commerce, distribution potential
Steering Growth
Tablet
Take the region with you with a digital edition optimized for tablet viewing.
Demographics
Drill down on the numbers behind the regions powerhouse economy with a full set of statistics and data.
Top Industries
Learn more about the key industry sectors and top companies that make the region work.
Trends
Learn more about whats shaping the regions business climate.
Top Employers
Find out who the major players are in the region.
Livability
Arts, culture, recreation, entertainment, education, health care and all the things that make the region an outstanding place to live.
Site Guide
Links to comprehensive data on available land and buildings.
Cool Companies
Meet more innovative, fast-growth businesses finding success.
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Chairman | Greg Thurman President/Publisher | Bob Schwartzman Executive Vice President | Ray Langen Senior V.P./Sales | Todd Potter Senior V.P./Client Development | Jeff Heefner Senior V.P./Operations | Casey Hester V.P./Sales | Jarek Swekosky V.P./Content Operations | Natasha Lorens Audience Development Director | Deanna Nelson Media Technology Director | Christina Carden Distribution Director | Gary Smith Photography Director | Jeffrey S. Otto web services Director | Allison davis Controller | Chris Dudley Senior Accountant | Lisa Owens Accounts Payable Coordinator | Maria McFarland Accounts Receivable Coordinator | Diana Guzman IT Director | Daniel cantrell Executive Secretary | Kristy Giles Human Resources Manager | Peggy Blake
Maury County Business is published annually by Journal Communications Inc. and is distributed through the Maury County Chamber & Economic Alliance. For advertising information or to direct questions or comments about the magazine, contact Journal Communications Inc. at (615) 771-0080 or by email at info@jnlcom.com. For more information, contact: Maury County Chamber & Economic Alliance 106 W. 6th St. Columbia, TN 38401 Phone: (931) 388-2155 Fax: (931) 380-0335 Visit Maury County Business online at businessclimate.com/maury-county Copyright 2013 Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Ste. 400, Franklin, TN 37067, (615) 771-0080. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent. Member Member The Association of Magazine Media Custom Content Council
Columbia
We Love Having You Here.
Nestle into a small town with a rich historical background and a sense of warmth and hospitality in Columbia, less than an hour south of Nashville. The Hampton Inn hotel in Columbia is located off I-65, within easy reach of most historical sites, parks and malls. Newly Renovated Lobby Clean and Fresh Bed Complimentary Hot Breakfast Whirlpool Rooms Fitness Center with PreCor Equipment and Free Weights
Overview
Maury County Offers Ideal Mix of Big-City Access and Small-Town Charm
Area known for its Location, Workforce and Livability Assets
n late 2010, the Maury County Chamber & Economic Alliance unveiled a four-year strategic plan, focusing on a diversified economy for Maury County. The emphasis of this strategy is about capitalizing on the unique assets of the community to create jobs. One such asset is Maury Countys strategic location on Interstate 65. This enviable location translates into great accessibility and cost effectiveness for a company considering Maury County. Currently, we are in the planning stages to potentially develop a business park along I-65 that will offer companies exceptional access to our regional transportation infrastructure, including I-65, I-24, I-40 and TN-840. Another asset to help our economic diversification is the Northfield Building in Spring Hill. Formerly GMs Saturn corporate headquarters, Northfield offers plug-and-play office space to companies looking to be operational in a short timeline. In 2011, the Northfield building became home to IBEX Global, a leading global business process outsourcing provider of customer management solutions. The company occupies 60,000 square feet of the property and employs more than 1,000 people. Finally, Maury County has a livability factor that is unique among its peers. Not only are we located on I-65, but our proximity to Nashville (30 minutes) and Huntsville, Ala., (50 minutes) provides residents with easy access to metropolitan amenities while also giving them a low cost of living and a great small-town atmosphere. Known as the Antebellum Capital of Tennessee, Maury Countys rich history and stately old homes help give the cities a distinctive sense of place. Ancient and beautiful natural landmarks, such as the Stillhouse Hollow Falls and Southport Saltpeter Cave, are complemented by modern recreational
facilities in more than 240 acres of parks. The Maury County Chamber & Economic Alliance invites you to see what Columbia, Spring Hill and Mount Pleasant have to offer. To see for yourself, visit www.mauryalliance.com. Or just call Maury County Alliance Director of Economic Development Wil Evans. You are invited to take a look at the old and new advantages a Maury County location offers businesses. Maury County Chamber & Economic Alliance 106 W. Sixth St. Columbia, TN 38401 (931) 388-2155 | www.mauryalliance.com
Maury County
TO NASHVILLE
Williamsport
50
MAURY
65
396
Hampshire
412
Columbia
Culleoka
31
WY
EZ
TR
AC
Mount Pleasant
EP K
AT
CH
43
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8 || Maury County
Columbia-based Artisan Industry creates large-scale play structures for local libraries, hospitals and other community buildings.
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199 Town Center Pkwy. P.O. Box 789 Spring Hill, TN 37174 (931) 486-2252 www.springhilltn.org
10 || Maury County
by the numbers
Sites To See
66
Number of historic homes and sites in Maury County listed on the National Register of Historic Places
Made Here
Engine of Ingenuity
Since making headlines more than 20 years ago for bringing GMs Saturn concept car to life, Maury County has earned a reputation for its automotive production prowess. The once-idled Spring Hill plant is back at it again, producing the auto giants new crossover sports utility vehicle, the Chevrolet Equinox, as well as parts for its iconic Chevrolet Corvette. GM also tapped Spring Hill as a manufacturing site for the four-cylinder Ecotec engine used to power models like the Chevrolet Malibu. Other Maury County companies producing high-tech products include: Experimental Design & Analysis Solutions Inc.: Makes the GPS-enabled performance tracking tool Ripxx used by athletes, including several U.S. Olympic teams, to train for skiing, snowboarding, kayaking, mountain biking and other extreme sports competitions. GrafTech International: Produces advanced graphite materials and refractory products used in everything from steel manufacturing to petrochemical, electronics and aerospace products at its Columbia facility.
Whos Here
Centers of Excellence
From one of the most highly ranked health-care systems in Middle Tennessee to an assembly hub for GMs up-and-coming vehicles, Maury County is a center for excellence in both services and production. Serving 260,000 people in south central Tennessee, Maury Regional Medical Center in Columbia is the largest hospital between Nashville and Huntsville, Ala., and the flagship center for medical facilities in Marshall, Wayne and Lewis counties. Repeatedly ranked as a top health-care system by Truven Health Analytics, formerly Thomson Reuters, Maury Regional operates accredited centers specializing in cardiac, cancer, neurological and orthopedic care. Other key employers in the region include: GM: Operates a flexible assembly plant in Spring Hill that produces high-indemand vehicles, along with engines and components supplied to GM plants worldwide. Employs more than 1,800. Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation: Nations largest state farm bureau; provides its 650,000 members with financial, marketing and political support as well as life, health, auto and property insurance. Employs 625 in Columbia.
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Business climate
Steering Growth
Existing businesses expand and thrive, driving investment and job creation in Maury County
interim president for the Maury County Chamber & Economic Alliance. Several of our existing businesses have recently announced expansions, and were seeing interest from new companies that are considering opening a location in our area. General Motors recently kicked off production of its new Ecotec engine in Spring Hill and announced the addition of other vehicles, which will create more than 2,000 jobs. The creation of jobs at Spring Hill manufacturing is a direct result of GMs recent $460 million
ith an enviable location on the I-65 corridor 30 miles south of Nashville, Maury County has enjoyed a burst in business growth that shows no signs of stopping. Attracting corporate investment and jobs, it prepares for the future by taking care of the businesses it has today. Maury County has a pro-business climate, says Wil Evans, director of economic development and
Wil Evans, director of economic development and interim president for the Maury County Chamber & Economic Alliance
12 || Maury County
GM
$460 million
GM recently invested
Production of the Ecotec engine and other vehicles in Spring Hill will create more than
2,000 jobs.
GMs Spring Hill plant produces the Chevrolet Equinox and the four-cylinder Ecotec engine. The facility also includes a stamping plant, polymer injection molding operations and a painting operation.
investment into the plant, says Kristy Bergstrom, GM spokesperson. The investment facilitated additional flexibility to our state-of-the-art engine plant and led to the creation of more than 800 new jobs in 2012. Spring Hill manufacturing will continue to play a critical role within GM North America. With 26 product launches for model years 2012 and 2013, it supports an astonishing 19 of those by supplying engines and parts. The areas mix of business and quality of life advantages make it an attractive location for GM, according to Bergstrom. Maury County offers competitive rates for conducting business, an ideal location to transport vehicles, parts and engines to sites across GMs North American operations, and wonderful amenities for
our employees and affiliates, she says. Southern hospitality is especially prevalent in Maury County with many GM employees opting to remain in Tennessee even after retirement.
13
management technology company, is looking to expand its Spring Hill operations. IBEX Global has about 1,100 employees, Evans says. They have become one of our largest employers since they opened their call center in Spring Hill in 2011. We definitely appreciate the automotive market as a huge part of our economy, but we also know a diverse economy is a strong economy. Were working to recruit different types of advanced manufacturers as well as logistics, operations and support centers similar to IBEX Global. Evans says the Maury County Chamber & Economic Alliance works to keep existing businesses happy and in the area by meeting with industry leaders. His office conducted 40 interviews of existing business leaders during 2012 to identify and address their needs. We are always looking to improve what we have to offer, he says.
Opening in 2011, IBEX Global, a call center in Spring Hill, is now one of Maury Countys top employers.
14 || Maury County
Community Collaboration
Team Maury
business leaders come together to create excitement, change
When businesses open in Maury County, a whole team of professionals is available to help them grow. Boosting business and quality of life is the mission of two groups recently launched by the Maury County Chamber & Economic Alliance. Our chamber has several committees, such as membership and public affairs, that keep business leaders updated and informed on issues, says Kara Huckaby, director of the Maury County Chamber & Economic Alliance. We host annual events and provide a State of Maury County address, too. But weve launched two groups in particular that further the involvement opportunities for our business leaders. Women of Wisdom, which launched in the spring of 2012, is a group that meets monthly. It was formed as a way to educate ourselves about the issues that affect community, particularly women in the workforce, Huckaby says. Huckaby says the group, which has grown to about 30 members, looks at financial issues as they pertain to women and highlights agencies that are making a difference in the community. Most of our programming and speakers are geared toward personal development, Huckaby says. Generation Maury, launched by the Chamber in 2011, is geared toward advocacy. With a membership of about 40 young professionals, speakers address local government, education, business codes and retail studies. This is a group for those who want to empower themselves and move forward, Huckaby says. Anytime you increase knowledge and awareness of current issues you are increasing the likelihood that things will get done. Generation Maury is a group that is eager to learn and make a difference. By empowering them with knowledge, we empower them to make a difference. These two groups have increased the passion and involvement in our county, she continues. People are excited to be in Maury County. When youre involved and excited, you become engaged. Stephanie Vozza
workforce development
Workforce Warriors
Programs and partnerships give Maury County students the skills needed to excel in the areas top industries
aury County is committed to providing relocating and expanding companies with the best possible workforce. To prove it, educators are working hand in hand with industry leaders to address skill gaps before they arise and prepare future workers for high-in-demand jobs in the areas top industries. One vital partner in this effort is the Workforce Development and Conference Center at Northfield, a nonprofit facility that helps advance business, economic and workforce development for southern Middle Tennessee. Housing a 25,000-square-foot advanced manufacturing lab, one-third of the center is used for training, and the rest of the 300,000-square-foot space is available for lease to
companies creating jobs. The facility allows education providers throughout the region to offer classes under one roof, some of which are even offered to dualenrollment high school juniors and seniors. All classes are developed with the assistance of the South Central Tennessee Workforce Alliance to focus on the emerging job market and close skill gaps, says Tom Brewer, director of the Workforce Development and Conference Center at Northfield. Columbia State Community College offers several courses at Northfield, including EMS emergency medical training and paramedic training. The Tennessee Technology Center at Hohenwald provides training for automotive technology and industrial maintenance, along with a program for certification as a Licensed Practical Nurse. The Tennessee Technology Center at Pulaski also holds
16 || Maury County
Columbia State students can take medical technician courses at Northfields Workforce Development and Conference Center.
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courses at Northfield in CNC computer numeric controlled machine technology, phlebotomy science, customer service/call center preparation and solar photovoltaic technology.
Workforce-Ready Curriculum
Along with its partnerships with regional colleges and tech centers, the South Central Tennessee Workforce Alliance provides numerous services to both employers and job seekers. Its 34-member workforce board, governed by business leaders
A Columbia State student gets hands-on training as part of the Advanced Integrated Industrial Technology program offered at the Northfield facility in Spring Hill.
across the region, meets regularly to discuss the needs of local employers and evaluate how the current workforce can meet those needs. Jan McKeel, executive director of the SCTWA, says it can be as simple as asking, How do you describe what you want in an employee? SCTWA then works with schools to find graduates who meet these needs or help the schools better understand which courses should be offered to address those gaps. Under the umbrella of the SCTWA is the Tennessee Career Center, the Tennessee Department of Labor & Workforce Development, Vocational Rehabilitation and Adult Education (Project Learn). All of these entities collaborate to help companies find their ideal employees, partly through aptitude tests that measure interests and skills in a particular area, including math and reading. National Career Readiness Certificates are then issued at a bronze, silver or gold level. Employers have also come to rely on these certificates as an excellent screening device for finding qualified applicants, McKeel says.
Amanda Moorhead
State-of-the-Art labs Thanks to the quick actions of the grants office of Columbia State Community College, the school inherited six pieces of equipment the U.S. Department of Energy no longer needs. Three oscilloscopes (used to monitor varying signal voltages), a microscope, a hygrometer (used to measure the moisture content in the environment) and a frequency meter found new homes in the colleges physical science, physics and chemistry laboratories. For more details on Columbia States programs and facilities, please visit www.columbiastate.edu.
18 || Maury County
STEM Education
Studies in STEM
Energy/technology
Accelerating Innovation
Entrepreneurs find resources, mentors for startups at area business accelerator
new Spring Hill business accelerator gives entrepreneurs access to resources and venture capital.
the Northfield accelerator hosts Entrepreneurial boot camps to help area startups broaden the scope of their ventures.
Northfields Autoxlr8r is designed to help entrepreneurs launch new technologies for the automotive industry.
20 || Maury County
hen it comes to promoting startups, Maury County puts its money where its mouth is. Last year, the county opened a business accelerator at the Northfield Workforce Development & Conference Center in Spring Hill to give area entrepreneurs access to resources and venture capital. The accelerator is part of the Southern Middle Tennessee Entrepreneur Center (SMTEC), a publicprivate partnership and one of nine regional entrepreneurial accelerators established and partially funded by the state of Tennessee. This requires a dollar-for-dollar match, so we solicit funds from local philanthropies and the business community, says Dan Marcum, executive director of SMTEC. Last summer Marcum led SMTECs first major initiative, the TenneSeed Camp, a 12-week immersion program held at Northfield and the Tullahoma accelerator for 11 regional startups. It teaches things I didnt learn in an MBA program. It was an eye-opening experience, says Michael Letterman, CEO of Cortac, a startup company in the nearby city of Hendersonville that produces a product called CTAV, a revolutionary device that works with military body armor to provide cooling and reduce the impact of gunshots. During summer 2013, SMTEC staged its second TenneSeed Camp and attracted more than 500 applicants, up fourfold from 2012. If we see they have high probability of success, we can help speed that up by exposing them to the experience of topquality mentors, proven processes and
networking them with key individuals around the U.S., Marcum says. This time the camp was held for the most part at Northfield, but also included visits to other accelerators in the Southeast, where participants were able to network with other venture capital firms and entrepreneurs to enlarge the scope and perspective of their ventures from regional to national.
25%
$20,000
Participants in the AutoXLR8R bootcamp were provided with office space and
The Northfield Workforce Development & Conference Center is now home to a business accelerator that helps entrepreneurs find a market for their ideas.
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21
22 || Maury County
In summer 2013 the Northfield Workforce Development & Conference Center hosted AutoXLR8R, an automotive bootcamp sponsored by the Southern Middle Tennessee Entrepreneur Center and a regional network of research institutions, engineering schools, and automotive manufacturers and suppliers.
THE CONTENDERS:
10 selected entrepreneurs
THE TERMS:
Office space and $20,000 in exchange for six to 10 percent equity, plus immersion in accounting, legal, HR and marketing training and visits to southeastern auto plants as well as Clemson Universitys International Center of Auto Research.
THE CHALLENGE:
13 weeks to identify, commercialize and secure funding for promising new technologies applicable to the automotive industry
13-week automotive bootcamp co-sponsored by an extensive network of research institutions, top engineering schools, and automotive manufacturers and suppliers. The program was designed to identify, commercialize and fund promising new technologies born in the area that are applicable to the automotive industry. In Tennessee, 25 percent of the economy is automotivebased, so there are vast opportunities available for inventive technologies as vehicles to become technologically advanced, Marcum says. One concept is superhydrophobic materials that repel water a process that could be used in the automotive or defense industry, Marcum adds. It takes four to six years to develop an auto, but some of the new technologies take only four to
six months, so were looking at how they can be integrated both at the time of sale and the aftermarket, he says. With the automotive industry in recovery, the southern portion of the United States is targeted for assembly plants as well as Tier 1, 2 and 3 subcontractors, and we hope to help build that base, Marcum says. The AutoXLR8R bootcamp, held May through August at the Northfield Center, immersed 10 selected entrepreneurs in accounting, legal, human resources and marketing disciplines, as well as venture capital opportunities. In addition, participants were provided with office space and $20,000 in exchange for six to 10 percent equity. Entrepreneurs also traveled to auto plants inside and outside the state, and visited Clemson Universitys
International Center of Auto Research, located in Greenville, S.C., to interface with engineers on ideas for the industrys future. Ultimately, the goal of SMTEC is to help startups understand what it takes to make connections in the venture capital community. At these bootcamps, we help companies turn an idea into an investable story, Marcum says.
Nan Bauroth
EnErgy/tEchn ology
nEw spring hill businEss accElEra tor givEs EntrEprE nEurs to rEsourc accEss Es and vEnturE capital.
20 || maury county
thE northfiE ld accElEra tor hosts EntrEprE nEurial boot camps to hElp arEa startups broadEn thE scopE of thEir vEnturEs .
northfiE lds autoxlr8 r is dEsignEd to hElp EntrEprE nEurs nEw tEchnol launch thE automot ogiEs for ivE industry .
hen it comes networkin to promoting g them with key individual around the startups, U.S., s This time the Marcum says. Maury County camp was most part at held for the puts its money Northfield , but also included visits to other mouth is. Last where its accelerato year, the county of the economy Southeast, rs in the business accelerator opened where participan in tennessee at the Northfield a to network Workforce ts were able is with other Developme automotiveventure capital nt & Conference firms and Center in Spring entreprene Hill to give urs to enlarge based scope and entreprene area perspectiv the urs access e of their ventures to resources from regional venture capital. and to national. of the Southern The accelerator is part Middle Tennessee Automotive Entreprene participants Bootcamp ur Center in the Spurs Innovation private partnershi (SMTEC), a publicautoxlr8r In addition p to and the one regional entreprene accelerato of nine bootcamp TenneSeed rs annual were bootcamp, urial accelerator established provided with Marcum is focusing on s and partially office developing state of Tennessee funded by the entreprene in several niches, space and urship including automotive This requires . aerospace, defense and a dollar-formatch, so law enforceme , dollar During the we solicit in exchange nt. summer of funds from philanthro for six revved up 2013, local pies and the to 10 percent its first AutoXLR8 SMTEC business communit equity. y, says R, a executive director Dan Marcum, Last summer of SMTEC. Marcum led first major SMTECs initiative, the Camp, a 12-week TenneSeed held at Northfieldimmersion program and the accelerato r for 11 regional Tullahoma startups. It teaches things I didnt MBA program. learn in an It was an eye-openin experience , says g CEO of Cortac, Michael Letterman , a startup company the nearby in city of Henderson produces a ville that product called revolution CTAV, a ary device that works military body armor to provide with and reduce cooling the impact of gunshots. During summer 2013, SMTEC its second staged TenneSee d Camp and attracted more than 500 applicants up fourfold , from 2012. If we see they have high probability success, we can of exposing them help speed that up by to the experience quality mentors, of topproven processes The Northfield and Workforce a
25%
$20,000
business accelerator
Developmen t & Conference that helps Center entrepreneur s find a marketis now home to for their ideas.
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Logistics
Road Ready W
hen Mike Wade sends truck drivers on routes to the west of Maury County, he knows theyll have a safer and faster journey since the opening of State Route 840. Wade, vice president for Mount Pleasant Transfer, a trucking company with terminals across Middle Tennessee, sees the opportunities the new bypass around Nashville creates for transportation businesses like his. His firm offers next-day delivery for less-thantruckload shipments to many points in the region. That means every minute counts. Any time you can stay out of a major city, youre a whole lot better off regarding safety, Wade says. It does cut down on some miles, but the No. 1 thing thats helped us as a trucking company is the safety issue. The final 14-mile leg of the 78-mile corridor in southern Middle Tennessee opened officially on Nov. 2, 2012, marking the end of a project that began in 1986. Overall, State Route 840 runs through Wilson, Rutherford, Williamson, Hickman, and Dickson counties, connecting with I-40 east of Nashville at Lebanon, I-24 near Murfreesboro, I-65 south at Franklin and I-40 near Dickson, and opening up the potential for local businesses to increase commerce from Memphis to Texas. Maury County offers easy access to Route
Newly opened State Route 840 boosts commerce, distribution potential for Maury County
840 via I-65, putting it within easy reach of interstates running north, south, east and west. Trucks from the county will no longer have to travel on narrow state highways or detour for miles to connect with I-40 in Nashville before heading west. Plus, the route will allow Maury County to offer a more accessible workforce and plenty of opportunity for economic development that relies on highway transportation.
25 25
40 24
65
Santa Fe Williamsport
Spring Hill
396
MAURY COUNTY
Hampshire
Cherry Glen Industrial Park
412
Columbia
Culleoka
31
Mount Pleasant
43
State Route 840 Newly opened segment of SR 840 Interstate Highway
26 || Maury County
40
word out that this drive has been cut down, and its commutable now.
Future Developments
The new route enhances the areas highway system and boosts its attractiveness to companies that rely on transportation and logistics. Additionally, Maury County is looking to capitalize on its proximity to Interstate 65. In cooperation with the Tennessee Valley Authority, area economic development leaders have been busy examining sites along I-65 to find the perfect spot for a potential new industrial park. The as-yet-unnamed I-65 business park could position Maury County to compete for corporate offices like those in nearby Cool Springs. Recently, the existing 547-acre Cherry Glen Industrial Park in Mount Pleasant received a boost with a commitment to build a 50,000-square-foot speculative building to attract companies. The county donated 12 acres of land and will make additional investments, along with the city of Mount Pleasant and Mount Pleasant Power Systems. Local leaders expect these steps to be just the first to support additional economic development. This could really open up northern Maury for development, McKeel says. It will be very convenient to jump on 840 because if youre headed west, you do not have to go through Nashville. Thanks to State Route 840s easily navigable corridor and quick, convenient access to major interstates, truck drivers, commuters and customers have plenty to be happy about. There are a lot of good things to say about it, Wade says.
Gary Wollenhaupt
Find out more about State Route 840s impact on Maury County at businessclimate.com/maury-county
transportation
Taking Off
M
Maury Countys diverse transportation network primed for major growth, improvements and upgrades as the area grows
County is only 40 miles from Nashville and just four hours away from key markets such as Atlanta, Birmingham, Chattanooga, Huntsville, Lexington, Louisville and Memphis. Maury County also has convenient rail service via CSX and the Tennessee Southern Railroad, which connects to the Port of Florence 60 miles away. County Regional Airport. The Mount Pleasant-based airfield has a 6,000-foot runway, ideal for larger corporate jets and freight carriers that has recently been resealed and repainted. Our fuel islands have been upgraded, and in the spring of 2013 we relocated our taxiway, moving it over about 50 feet to provide easier maneuverability for all of our flight customers, says Paul Turner, manager of Maury County Regional Airport. We also rent Hertz cars out of our airport, and
aury County is an area that offers plenty of positives for businesses, including a strong transportation network. Infrastructure that gives the county a logistical and distribution advantage include direct access to Interstate 65 as well U.S. Highways 412, 43 and 31, along with proximity to newly opened State Route 840. Maury
Air Access
A key transportation asset in Maury County is the Maury
28 || Maury County
Home to Middle Tennessees third-longest runway, Maury County Regional Airport is ideal for larger corporate jets and freight carriers.
40 corporate and individual planes are parked on site. Turner says the airport averages 150 flights each month, plus it accommodates transient and military aircrafts. In early 2013, four Apache helicopters from New York stopped at the airport to refuel on their way to Louisiana for training; then the four helicopters and two additional Blackhawk jets specifically stopped at our airport on their return trip to New York, he says. All of the pilots said they were so impressed with our hospitality on their way to Louisiana that they returned two weeks later.
Turner adds that the airport serves the needs of area business and industry with charter service for both passengers and freight. Aircraft maintenance is available, along with heated hangars. We are open 24 hours, and our terminal is equipped with an on-site conference room for anyone to use, he says. This airport is a real asset to Maury County.
150 flights
each month
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It (James Campbell Boulevard) is the most valuable stretch of real estate in all of Maury County.
countys most traveled corridor. The boulevard, designated as U.S. Highway 50, serves as the location of Maury Regional Medical Center, the Walmart Supercenter, Belk, the Columbia Mall, hotels, and numerous businesses and restaurants, so a long-term plan is under way to improve traffic routes while adding to James Campbells aesthetic charms.
rd
TROT
WOO
v en DA
ue
HATCHER
LANE
Planned Beautification and Route Improvements to James Campbell Boulevard County 30 || Maury
project that will take time to raise money and complete, but its a top priority here in Columbia and Maury County. The city will build a two-lane road between the parking lots of Walmart and the adjacent Belk department store to alleviate traffic, plus construct some through-streets to Hatcher Lane to provide further access to Walmart, he continues. Plans for James Campbell Boulevard stretch to the year 2050, but residents will begin seeing initial upgrades very soon. Kevin Litwin
Maury County offers shortline rail service through the Tennessee Southern Railroad.
Plant Maintenance Machining Services Metal Fabrication and Welding Turnkey Project Management
1940 Oakland Pkwy. Columbia, TN 38401 (931) 388-6202
www.columbiamachineworks.com
32 || Maury County
Economic profile
Population (2012 estimate)
Maury County: 81,990
Top Employers
Maury Regional Medical Center:
2,135
1,868 1,580
IBEX Global:
80,956
69,498
34,915
Spring Hill:
1,200
Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation & Affiliates:
29,735
Mount Pleasant:
625
Walmart: IB Tech:
2000
2010
2012
2016
4,591
500 385
City of Columbia:
2000 Census: 69,498 2010 Census: 80,956 2012 Estimate: 81,990 2016 Projection: 94,487 Sources: Maury County Chamber & Economic Alliance, U.S. Census Bureau
Labor Force
36,200
Income
373
Cost of Living
Median Household Income:
$23,098
Change in Avg. Household Income since 2000: 10%
$53,728
$118,420 $713
Redman-davis
Serving Tomorrows Needs Today
insuRance agency
www.redmandavis.com
410 W. Seventh St. Columbia, TN (931) 388-5387
INSURANCE
94,487
81,990
Puckett's Grocery & Restaurant recently opened a new location in historic downtown Columbia. The Franklin, Tenn.-based eatery and live music venue is already helping draw more traffic downtown.
Maury County revitalizes shopping scene with national chains and locally owned retailers
34 || Maury County
Retail
hether shoppers prefer the dazzle of a mall, the eclecticism of a boutique or the convenience of a superstore, Maury County delivers. Long considered one of the most thriving towns in south central Tennessee, Maury Countys county seat of Columbia has maintained a thriving retail market for decades. With the town square serving as its heart and soul, locals in decades past could spend all day downtown, shopping at JCPenney and Woolworths, having lunch at the By-Path Caf or catching a show at the Princess Theater. But like many small towns nationwide, the development of suburbs, shopping centers and strip malls pulled people away from downtown. Revitalization efforts began in the 1980s with initiatives such as the Tennessee Main Street Program, organized by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, but results ebbed and flowed until now. Retail in downtown Columbia is in the midst of an upswing. New businesses, such as Pie Sensations, The Old Curiosity Book Shop and Wall Candy Custom Framing & Gallery, are joining established operations such as The Wheel bike shop and Teds Sporting Goods. Downtown Columbia offers a great opportunity for retail because it is such a pleasing place to be in, says Kristi Martin, executive director of Columbia Main Street. Columbia has history and integrity.
Home to unique shops and restaurants, downtown Columbia is a popular retail center.
popular eatery and live music venue with locations in Franklin, Nashville and now Columbia. The newest Pucketts location offers two private dining rooms as well as a second-story event center that accommodates up to 400 people. Pucketts Columbia also marks the flagship for Pucketts Creamery, a handchurned ice cream shop located next door to the restaurant. The excitement surrounding Pucketts Columbia is something that James Lund, co-owner of The Old Curiosity Book Shop, calls The Pucketts Effect. Downtown has needed an anchor store for a long time, Lund says. Little stores like us arent going to do that as well as a place like Pucketts.
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Pie Sensations, which sells homemade pies, truffles, cakes and other sweet treats, is one of several new businesses that have opened along the courthouse square in downtown Columbia.
Lund and his wife, Heather, opened the Old Curosity Book Shop in December 2012 two doors down from Pucketts Columbia, making it an ideal place to linger before or after a meal. There are a lot of really nice, unique stores in downtown Columbia, and we wanted to be a part of that, Lund says. In addition to new business, aesthetic improvements to
downtown, including everything from bike racks to the Duck Riverwalk trails and Farmers Market pavilion, add to the appeal. Columbia also has plans to overhaul James Campbell Boulevard, a busy thoroughfare that provides access to the Columbia Mall and other businesses. The project is part of a larger vision to enhance livability. Were planning to install bike
lanes, sidewalks, trees and new streets, says Norman Wright, City of Columbia development services director. Were confident that our plan will improve safety, property values and access. If it happens to help the mall, thats just icing on the cake.
Springing Forward
While Columbia regains its foothold, neighboring Spring Hill
There are a lot of really nice, unique stores in downtown Columbia, and we wanted to be a part of that.
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Above left: The Old Curiosity Book Shop in downtown Columbia offers residents a place to linger after a big meal. Above right: Founded in 1955, Ted's Sporting Goods is one of Columbia's staple stores.
enjoys a growing, family-centered population, which makes it an attractive choice for large shopping centers such as The Crossings, a development that includes stores like Target and Kohl's, as well as almost 50 additional retailers. We receive a vast amount of retail traffic from areas such as Wayne County, says Spring Hill City Administrator Victor Lay. People like that can get in and out without the traffic of larger cities such as Franklin. From the mega-shopping of Spring Hill to the mid-size and boutique offerings of Columbia and Mount Pleasant, Maury County has retail to suit myriad tastes and budgets. And the future holds promise for even more diversity.
The time is right for renewal in downtown, says Wall Candy co-proprietor Mary Helen Payne of her Columbia locale. Neighbor James Lund agrees. The square isnt just the place to get tags anymore, he says. Heather Johnson
Thats Entertainment Downtown businesses hosting regular events include: Artisan Party: New and local artist showcase First Thursday of the month 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Wall Candy Custom Framing & Art Gallery 116 W. 7th St., Columbia Local Author Book Club: Last Thursday of the Month 7 p.m. The Old Curiosity Book Shop 12 Public Sq., Columbia Music on Main: Mt. Pleasant Grille Saturday at 6 p.m. 100 S. Main St., Mt. Pleasant.
RETAIL
Puckett's Grocery & Restaurant to the area's many businesses in historic downtown Candy Custom Columbia has including The Framing & helped rejuvenate Old Curiosity Gallery. Book Shop, the local retail The Wheel, industry by Ted's Sporting drawing people Goods, Pie Sensations and Wall
MAURY COUNTY REVITALIZES SHOPPING SCENE WITH NATIONAL CHAINS AND LOCALLY OWNED RETAILERS
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hether shoppers prefer the dazzle of a mall, the eclecticism a boutique or of the convenienc superstore, e of a Maury Long considered County delivers. one of the most thriving towns in Maury Countys south central Tennessee, has maintained county seat of Columbia decades. With a thriving retail market for the town square its heart and serving as soul, locals in decades past could spend all day downtown, JCPenney and shopping at Woolworths at the By-Path , having lunch Caf or catching the Princess a show at Theater. But like many the developmen small towns nationwide, t of suburbs, centers and shopping strip malls pulled people away from downtown. Revitalizati efforts began on in initiatives such the 1980s with Street Program, as the Tennessee Main National Trust organized by the Home to shops for Historic and restaurants, but results Preservatio ebbed and flowed. n, Columbia is a center of activity downtown Until now. in Maury County. Retail in downtown Columbia is in the midst of an upswing. popular eatery New businesses, and live music such as Pie Sensations locations in venue with , The Franklin, Nashville Shop and Wall Old Curiosity Book Columbia. The newest Pucketts and now & Gallery, are Candy Custom Framing offers two private location joining established dining rooms operations a second-stor as well as such as The y event center Wheel bike and Teds Sporting that shop accommodates up to Goods. Pucketts Columbia 400 people. Downtown Columbia offers also opportunit flagship a great for Pucketts marks the y for Creamery, a a pleasing place retail because it is such churned ice handcream to be in, says Martin, executive to the restaurant. shop located next door Kristi director of Main Street. The excitement Columbia Columbia surroundin has history and integrity. Columbia is something that g Pucketts co-owner of James Lund, The Old Curiosity The Pucketts Shop, calls Book Effect The Pucketts Effect. Downtown One especially has needed an anchor store for a long Pucketts Grocerypleasing newcomer is time, Lund & Restaurant stores like us says. Little ,a arent going to do well as a place like Pucketts. that as
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livability
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rom its picturesque, pastoral setting to landmarks rich in history and heritage, Maury County has a charm that sets it apart from other communities its size. Aside from its natural beauty, the area offers a wealth of quality-of-life advantages that make it an attractive place to visit and live. It is a nice-sized community, and its friendly and welcoming with warm Southern hospitality,
property taxes, a top medical facility, the four seasons, good restaurants and plenty to do, she says. Retire Tennessee is a state economic development initiative that markets 12 Tennessee counties through advertising campaigns in trade shows and other outlets.
Walk Park with a farmers market is open along the river on Riverside Drive, a couple blocks from the downtown Columbia district, Pierce says.
Natural Attractions
Outdoor buffs can find plenty in the area to keep them occupied. Maury County has a full range of recreational activities such as
The Duck River is a favorite spot for canoeing and kayaking in Maury County.
says Brenda Pierce, executive director of the Maury County Convention & Visitors Bureau. Plus the county is easily accessible to Interstate 65 for convenient drives to Nashville or Huntsville. Maury County is home to highquality schools, Pierce adds, as well as an active arts community that includes a recently opened childrens museum called aMuseum. Maury County has also been designated a Retire Tennessee community thanks to affordable housing, low cost of living, low
golf, fishing, horseback riding, hunting, bowling and hiking at five spacious parks, Pierce says. Columbia State Community College offers continuing education classes available to people of all ages, and the more active and adventurous can try caving at Southport Saltpeter Cave, while mountain bikers can enjoy several challenges at Chickasaw Trace Bike Trail. Another one-of-a-kind recreational asset in Maury County is the Duck River. The Duck is great for canoeing and kayaking, plus a new River
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Kid-Friendly Fun
From outdoor to indoor adventures, Maury County offers plenty of pintsized entertainment, including: aMuseum: Children are encouraged to explore, discover, imagine and create through interactive exhibits and educational play at this downtown Columbia museum. Ring Farm: Families can enjoy hayrides, a corn maze and Halloween ghost tours at this corn and soybean farm in Columbia. Kids Kingdom: With a castle-like structure, a sandbox and plenty of play areas, this playground at Maury County Park is a favorite among families. Whippoorwill Lake: Adultsupervised fishing for bass, bluegill, catfish and sunfish is available for kids at this 25-acre lake in Williamsport. The Royal Brush: Kids can channel their inner artist at this paint-your-ownpottery studio near the Columbia Mall.
Kids Kingdom in Columbias Maury County Park is a popular playground, drawing between 600,000 and 800,000 visitors each year.
Presidential Hall that features exhibits related to Polk and his presidency, says Tom Price, curator at Polk Presidential Hall. People can first enter the Sisters House for a quick introductory video, then tour the James K. Polk Ancestral Home and all its interesting belongings, and finally visit the Presidential Hall. They are three amazing historic
attractions all within yards of one another. The three Polk sites are open seven days a week, Price says, with several items on display that were owned by the former president and his family. Touring the Sisters House and the Polk Home are like stepping back into the first half of the 19th century, just 50 years after the
U.S. was formed, he says. And the Polk Presidential Hall showcases all aspects of the vibrant presidency. One of our recent exhibits was entitled Sarah Polk: First Lady of Style, which highlighted the First Ladys life because she was an unconventional woman of the 19th century. Kevin Litwin
Natural Gem Part of a 90-acre state natural area 20 miles southwest of Columbia and three miles northeast of Summertown off U.S. Highway 43, Stillhouse Hollow Falls is a must-see. The natural area opened to the public in 2006 with a small parking area, signage, a kiosk and developed trails. Streams, waterfalls and wildflowers regale hikers along the 2.3-mile trail. Those who want more can explore a small forest of sugar maples, sycamores, white oaks, beeches and tulip poplar trees near the falls.
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cuisine
A Full Plate
Maury County restaurants offer diverse dining
Its feast first at restaurants throughout Maury County and each town in the area is served well, with a diversity of eateries from meat-andthrees to fine dining. Newcomers to the local restaurant scene include the Columbia location of Pucketts Grocery & Restaurant, which has Southern cooking and live music on the menu, and River Terrace Restaurant, which serves up authentic Cajun cuisine cooked by native New Orleanians. Columbia also offers places like Buckhead Coffee House, Embers Tavern & Grille, Legends Steakhouse, Marcy Jos Mealhouse, Christys 6th Street and Stans Restaurant, while Spring Hill has destinations such as Amigos Mexican Grill, JJs Barbecue, Panchos Place, YaYas Bakery & Cafe and Sultan Table. Campbell Station Store & Restaurant serves customers in Culleoka, and Mount Pleasant Grille is a favorite of diners in Mount Pleasant. An upscale venue that has been a fixture in downtown Columbias public square is Square Market & Cafe, which opened in 2003. It took a while to get established because no restaurants and very little retail were on the square at that time, says Debra Mann, owner of the eatery. But word grew, and so did our restaurant. Square Market & Cafe is now open for breakfast and lunch MondaySaturday and dinner on weekends. Dinner can feature anything from steak to salmon served in an elegant and romantic atmosphere, Mann says. Our chef is Chris Howes, a graduate of the famed Johnson and Wales College of Culinary Arts. Were lucky to have Chris. Mann adds that all items on the menu are fresh and made to order, and catering services are also available. We were nominated in seven restaurant categories in the recent Columbia Daily Herald Best of Maury competition, including best wait staff, best romantic environment and best soups, she says. We enjoy being in Maury County and thank our customers for supporting us all these years. Kevin Litwin
Health
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edical advancements are common place at Maury Regional Medical Center, home to heart, cancer, neurology and orthopedic centers, and nationally acclaimed for its patient care and safety. Located in Columbia, the hospital was recently ranked among the nations top 100 hospitals by Truven Health Analytics, formerly known as Thomson Reuters. The facility was also the only hospital in Tennessee to attain Truven Healths annual Everest Award, which recognizes hospitals that have achieved both the highest level of current performance and the fastest long-term improvement over the course of five years. Maury Regionals ongoing expansions and enhancements to technology and services continue to boost the quality of and access to care for patients. A new Maury Regional Cancer Center opened in June 2012 at the Columbia Mall. The new center includes a FHG Oncology physician practice, a large chemotherapy area and an on-site pharmacy. As the number of cancer patients treated at the hospital continued to increase, it created the demand for a more spacious facility, said Alan Watson, Maury Regional Medical Center CEO. The site at the Columbia Mall was selected for patient convenience and affordability compared to building a new center. Also in 2012, Maury Regional added neurosurgery to its list of hospital specialties. Its neurosurgery services include craniotomies, radiosurgery for treating inoperable brain tumors, spinal surgery for degenerative disease, and removal of benign and malignant spinal tumors.
The newly opened Maury Regional Cancer Center, located in the Columbia Mall, offers increased space and convenience for cancer patients.
physicians performing their 1,000th radial artery cardiac catheterization since the procedure was first introduced at Maury Regional in 2011. The radial artery cardiac catheterization is less invasive, reaching the heart via a small puncture through the wrist, Watson says. The benefits to the patient include a significant decrease in recovery time and discomfort as well as a lower possibility of complications. The medical center offers cardiovascular and thoracic services through a collaboration with Vanderbilt Heart. Services include interventional procedures, such as angioplasty and stenting, as well as cardiac bypass surgery, defibrillator implantation and more.
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new TriStar Medical Park at Spring Hill opened near the intersection of Kedron Road and Saturn Parkway. The three-story, $15 million building has a freestanding emergency department on the first floor staffed by boardcertified physicians and emergency care staff. The entire first floor features a 10,000-square-foot, 24/7/365 emergency department that has 12 rooms, including two dedicated pediatric rooms, one large trauma room and an isolation respiratory room, says Joe Mazzo, vice president of clinical operations for TriStar Centennial. Much of the U.S. is moving toward freestanding emergency room facilities in growing communities, and Spring Hill certainly has needed such a medical park for some time. The goal of the medical park is to provide as many health-care services as possible to area residents, Mazzo says. Current services include X-ray, CT scans, ultrasound and imaging, plus telemedicine that allows doctors from afar to offer helpful diagnoses, he says. We will eventually lease second- and third-floor offices for cardiology, ob/gyn, mammography and other specialties. There is no surgery or overnight stays at the Spring Hill medical park. Its main purpose is being an emergency department along with specialty offices. The emergency department also has a medical laboratory as well as an adjacent helipad. There is also a decontamination room, a seclusion room and plans for much more, Mazzo says. Spring Hill continues to be an expanding community, and we want to eventually have all of its medical needs covered. Kevin Litwin
Named among 100 Top Hospitals and Received the everest award in 2013 from Truven Health Analytics, Formerly Thomson Reuters Named Top health System in 2011 and 2012 By Truven Health Analytics Named Among 50 tOp Cardiovascular Hospitals in 2012 By Truven Health Analytics Received the QUEST Award for High Value health Care in 2011 by Premier Health-Care Alliance Home to a level III Accredited chest pain center
Find out more about Maury Regional Medical Centers expansions at businessclimate.com/maury-county
First hospital in Tennessee to receive a Pathway of excellence designation from the American nurses credentialing center
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Gallery
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A Shoppers Mecca
Home to an array of eclectic shops and locally owned boutiques, the Public Square in Columbia is a popular stop for shoppers looking for unique merchandise.
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931-388-0222
7207 Hoover Mason Rd. Mt. Pleasant, TN 38474 (931) 379-5836 Fax: (931) 379-0473 www.tap-rsi.com
We Cant.
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Ad Index
32 Americas Home Place C4 Ascend Federal Credit Union 10 BMC Metalworks LLC C2 Bostelman Enterprises 15 City of Columbia 10 City of Spring Hill Tennessee 32 Columbia Academy 6 Columbia Hampton Inn 32 Columbia Machine Works 41 Columbia Power & Water Systems 22 Columbia State Community College 44 Community First Bank & Trust 32 Cytec Industries Inc. 32 Duck River Electric Membership Corporation 32 Fanciwork/Patchtown 1 First Farmers 5 General Motors 32 Heritage Bank & Trust 44 Kraft CPAS 27 Martin Methodist College 22 Maury County Convention & Visitors Bureau 48 Maury County Public Schools C3 Maury Regional Medical Center 48 Painting With A Twist
Ad Index (cont.)
31 Parks Motor Sales Inc. 33 Redman-Davis Insurance 48 TAP-RSI 32 Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation 2 Vanderbilt Medical Center 48 VIP Moving & Storage of Tennessee 48 YMCA of Middle Tennessee 19 Zion Christian Academy