Construction continues on the new TCAT/Roane State campus in Jamestown, with hopes it can transform the landscape of the city.
Fentress Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Jacob Rosenbaum said the development of the nearly-finished campus could lead to more changes on that side of town.
“This is probably the best thing that has happened for our community in recent decades,” Rosenbaum said. “It’ll give our young people the opportunity to further their education after high school right here in Fentress County without having to go somewhere else.”
While construction is set to be finished in the fall, Rosenbaum said the higher education institution is already drawing in businesses to the area. Rosenbaum said old buildings that were renovated and sat empty for many years, are now home to new store fronts — including a bakery, a diner-style restaurant and office space.
“We’re looking to see that continue to happen,” Rosenbaum said. “More commerce, more restaurants, more businesses opening up on the south side of Jamestown as this campus opens up.”
Rosenbaum said the new campus, as well as a significant population increase and a spike in median income within the area are all factors contributing toward Jamestown’s recent development.
“This is partially driven by the establishment of the higher education campus,” Rosenbaum said. “But we’re really seeing a renaissance in the city of Jamestown in terms of historic buildings being purchased, renovated and then put into use for various businesses.”
Rosenbaum said Fentress has a history of being a county with one of the highest percentages of small business income in the state.
“People here have always been inclined to hustle, and do a little extra work on the side and make a little extra money,” Rosenbaum said.
Rosenbaum said along with other developments, like improvements to Highway 127, the new TCAT campus has elevated local optimism and the economy on the south side of town.