Quarterly Newsletter
Community Stakeholders Report - Quarter Three 2026
A.Y. McDonald Celebrates Grand Opening of New Bristol Facility
A.Y. McDonald Manufacturing Company recently marked a major milestone with the official ribbon-cutting of its new Bristol, Tennessee, facility, celebrating the completion of a state-of-the-art manufacturing operation that will support the company's continued growth for years to come.
Located in Bristol Business Park, the new 328,000-square-foot facility serves all three of A.Y. McDonald's product lines: water works, plumbing, and natural gas products. Company leaders noted that the project transformed an undeveloped site into a modern manufacturing campus in just over 18 months.
The investment represents a significant win for the Bristol region and reflects the strong partnership among local, regional, and state economic development organizations that helped bring the project to fruition, retaining nearly 300 regional manufacturing jobs while creating room for future expansion.
During the ribbon-cutting celebration, company representatives highlighted the facility's focus on operational efficiency, employee experience, and customer service. The new plant provides enhanced manufacturing capabilities while creating a modern workplace designed to support A.Y. McDonald's workforce and long-term success.
The grand opening marks the beginning of a new chapter for A.Y. McDonald in Bristol and underscores the region's continued success in attracting and growing advanced manufacturing investment.
Sam Dong Expansion Strengthens Hawkins County Manufacturing Base
Hawkins County is celebrating another significant economic development win as Sam Dong America announced plans to expand its manufacturing operations in Rogersville with a $13.5 million investment and the creation of 22 new jobs.
The expansion will increase production capacity for the company's enamel and Continuously Transposed Conductor (CTC) product lines, which are essential components used in transformers and utility-scale electrical grid applications. As demand for grid modernization and energy infrastructure continues to grow across North America, the investment positions Hawkins County to play an even larger role in supporting the nation's energy future.
Headquartered in South Korea, Sam Dong established its Tennessee operations in 2007 and has become a key employer in Rogersville. Following the completion of the expansion, the company is expected to employ nearly 175 people at its Hawkins County facility.
The announcement highlights the strength of Northeast Tennessee's manufacturing workforce and the region's ability to support international investment. State and local leaders praised the project as an example of continued business confidence in Tennessee and the opportunities being created for local families through high-quality manufacturing careers.
For Hawkins County and the broader Northeast Tennessee region, the expansion underscores the importance of retaining and growing existing industries while building on the area's reputation as a competitive location for advanced manufacturing and global investment.
Tenaska-TVA Project Brings Major Energy Investment to East Tennessee
East Tennessee received a significant economic development boost this year with the announcement that Tenaska, through its affiliate Bobwhite Energy Storage, has entered into a long-term agreement with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) to develop a large-scale battery energy storage project in Hawkins County. The project represents an estimated $300 million investment and further strengthens the region's role in supporting America's growing energy infrastructure needs.
The 225-megawatt, 900-megawatt-hour Bobwhite Energy Storage Project will be located in East Tennessee and is expected to begin construction in 2027, with operations targeted for late 2029. The facility will help improve grid reliability, manage peak electricity demand, and support the continued growth of industry and emerging technologies across TVA's seven-state service territory.
In addition to enhancing energy security, the project is expected to create up to 75 construction jobs and generate new opportunities for local businesses and suppliers during development. The investment underscores the increasing importance of Northeast Tennessee as a destination for energy, infrastructure, and technology-related projects.
The announcement reflects the type of forward-looking investment that supports both economic growth and long-term competitiveness. As demand for reliable electricity continues to rise, projects like Bobwhite position East Tennessee to play a key role in powering the region's future while creating new opportunities for local communities.
Roberts Machine Inc. Looks to Expand in Blountville
NETWORKS Website Earns International Recognition with IEDC Silver Award
NETWORKS Sullivan Partnership has received international recognition for its commitment to marketing Northeast Tennessee and supporting economic growth, earning a 2026 Excellence in Economic Development Silver Award from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) for its newly redesigned website. The award, presented in the Internet & New Media category for communities with populations between 25,000 and 200,000, recognizes innovative marketing tools that advance business attraction, workforce development, and community engagement.
The award-winning website was developed to better serve site selectors, business leaders, workforce talent, and community stakeholders by providing a comprehensive, user-friendly resource for exploring opportunities across Northeast Tennessee. New features include an expanded property search database, detailed community profiles, workforce and demographic data, interactive mapping tools, and enhanced information for companies considering expansion or relocation within the region. Improved navigation and mobile responsiveness help visitors quickly access the information they need.
The website redesign was made possible through funding from the Tennessee ThreeStar Grant Program, which supports community and economic development initiatives across the state. NETWORKS partnered with Golden Shovel Agency, a nationally recognized economic development communications firm, to create a modern digital platform that showcases the region's assets, opportunities, and vision for future growth.
In announcing the award, Nathan Ohle, President and CEO of IEDC, praised the organization's leadership and innovation, noting that the website demonstrates NETWORKS Sullivan Partnership's commitment to its communities and the practice of economic development. The award will be formally presented during the IEDC 2026 Annual Conference in New Orleans later this month.
For NETWORKS, the recognition represents more than a successful website project. It highlights the organization's ongoing efforts to position Sullivan and Hawkins counties as competitive destinations for investment, job creation, and talent attraction. The award also continues a tradition of excellence for the organization, which previously earned an IEDC Gold Award in 2017 for its Community Quality of Life video.
As economic development increasingly relies on digital engagement and first impressions made online, the IEDC Silver Award affirms that Northeast Tennessee is telling its story on a world-class stage and providing prospective investors with the tools they need to discover the opportunities available throughout the region.
Kingsport IMAX Celebrates Grand Opening at Fort Henry Mall
A new era of entertainment has arrived in Northeast Tennessee with the grand opening and ribbon-cutting of the region's first IMAX theater at Fort Henry Mall in Kingsport. Community leaders, business partners, and representatives from Neighborhood Cinema Group (NCG) gathered in July to celebrate the much-anticipated addition, which is expected to draw visitors from across the Tri-Cities and beyond.
The new IMAX with Laser auditorium features state-of-the-art technology, including 4K laser projection, immersive precision sound, and luxury seating designed to provide an unparalleled movie-going experience. The theater officially opened with the release of Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey, giving local audiences access to a premium cinematic experience previously unavailable in the region.
The investment represents more than a new attraction for movie lovers. Local leaders view the project as a catalyst for additional activity at Fort Henry Mall and throughout the surrounding area. The IMAX theater is expected to attract visitors from a broad regional market, bringing increased foot traffic and economic activity to nearby businesses.
The IMAX opening is also part of a larger transformation underway at the theater complex, with additional renovations planned to enhance the guest experience even further. As Kingsport continues to invest in quality-of-life amenities and destination attractions, the new IMAX stands as another example of the region's commitment to growth, innovation, and creating experiences that serve both residents and visitors.
Bass Pro Shops Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway
The annual Bass Pro Shops Night Race once again proved why it is known as “America’s Night Race,” drawing thousands of fans to Bristol Motor Speedway in September for one of NASCAR’s most anticipated events. The race weekend showcased the excitement, energy, and economic impact that continue to make Bristol one of the premier motorsports destinations in the nation.
Under the lights on September 19, drivers battled across 500 laps of intense short-track racing before Joey Logano captured the victory in a dramatic finish. The win marked Logano’s third victory of the season and the 40th of his NASCAR Cup Series career, adding another memorable chapter to the storied history of Bristol’s signature event.
Beyond the action on the track, race weekend brought visitors from across the country to Northeast Tennessee, generating activity for local hotels, restaurants, retailers, and attractions. Events such as the Night Race continue to play a vital role in the region’s tourism economy, showcasing Bristol and the greater Tri-Cities area to a national audience while highlighting the community’s ability to host world-class events.
For residents and visitors alike, the Bass Pro Shops Night Race remains a cornerstone event that combines entertainment, tourism, and economic impact. As another successful race weekend comes to a close, Bristol Motor Speedway continues to reinforce its reputation as one of the most iconic venues in all of motorsports.
Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion 2026: A Celebration of Music and Heritage
Downtown Bristol came alive once again in September as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion celebrated its 25th anniversary, drawing thousands of music fans to the streets of Tennessee and Virginia for a weekend filled with outstanding performances, cultural heritage, and community pride. The festival marked a significant milestone for one of the region's signature events and further reinforced Bristol's identity as the Birthplace of Country Music.
Held September 11-13, the 25th annual festival featured an impressive lineup of nationally recognized and emerging artists performing on stages throughout historic downtown Bristol. Artists including Sierra Ferrell, The War and Treaty, Old Crow Medicine Show, Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives, Los Lobos, and The Del McCoury Band helped make the anniversary celebration one of the most memorable in the festival's history.
Since its founding in 2001, the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion has grown into one of the premier music festivals in the Southeast, honoring the legacy of the historic 1927 Bristol Sessions while showcasing the best of Appalachian roots music, Americana, bluegrass, country, folk, and beyond. The event continues to attract visitors from across the nation, generating significant economic impact for local businesses, hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
Beyond the music, the festival highlights the unique character of downtown Bristol, where two states come together on one iconic Main Street. The weekend celebrated not only a rich musical heritage but also the collaboration, creativity, and community spirit that make the Bristol region a destination unlike any other.
As the festival concludes its landmark 25th year, the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion remains a powerful example of how arts, culture, and tourism contribute to the economic vitality and quality of life that continue to strengthen Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia.
Kingsport Fun Fest Celebrates 40 Years of Summer Tradition
The City of Kingsport celebrated a major milestone this summer as Fun Fest 2026 marked its 40th anniversary, bringing nine days of entertainment, community spirit, and family-friendly activities to Northeast Tennessee. Held July 17-25, the festival once again showcased why it has become one of the region's most beloved annual traditions.
More than 100 events took place across dozens of locations throughout the city; Fun Fest offered something for residents and visitors of all ages. Popular events included the annual parade, Downtown Street Fair, Crazy 8s Road Race, hot air balloon activities, sporting events, family picnics, outdoor recreation programs, food experiences, and community celebrations that filled Kingsport with energy throughout the week.
A highlight of the festival was the Sunset Concert Series, which featured nationally recognized artists including Brothers Osborne, LeAnn Rimes, Daughtry, Switchfoot, Jeremy Camp, and Katy Nichole. The concerts attracted thousands of attendees and helped make the 40th anniversary celebration one of the most memorable in recent years.
Beyond the entertainment, Fun Fest continues to generate significant economic activity for local businesses, restaurants, hotels, and attractions while strengthening the quality of life that makes Kingsport an attractive place to live, work, and visit. The festival's success is made possible each year through the efforts of volunteers, sponsors, community organizations, and local leaders who work together to create a welcoming experience for the entire region.
As Fun Fest celebrated four decades of community tradition, it once again demonstrated the power of bringing people together. The event remains a cornerstone of summer in Northeast Tennessee and an important showcase of the community pride, hospitality, and vibrant quality of life that continue to define Kingsport.
Bluff City Heritage Days 2026: A Celebration of Community and Tradition
The Town of Bluff City welcomed residents and visitors alike to Main Street on September 26 for the 32nd annual Bluff City Heritage Days, a longstanding community celebration that highlights the town's rich history, local businesses, and small-town charm. The event brought together families, vendors, and community organizations for a day of entertainment, fellowship, and hometown pride.
Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed live music, food trucks, local craft vendors, yard sales, and a variety of family-friendly activities that filled downtown Bluff City with energy and excitement. The festival provided an opportunity for local artisans, entrepreneurs, and community groups to showcase their talents and connect with visitors from across the region.
One of the event's most popular attractions was the annual Car & Motorcycle Show, which featured an impressive display of classic vehicles, custom builds, and motorcycles from enthusiasts throughout Northeast Tennessee. The exhibit added to the festival atmosphere and drew visitors of all ages to downtown Bluff City.
For more than three decades, Bluff City Heritage Days has served as a celebration of the town's heritage while supporting local businesses and strengthening community connections. Events like Heritage Days help preserve the character that makes Bluff City unique while creating opportunities for economic activity and tourism in Sullivan County.
As another successful Heritage Days celebration concluded, the event once again demonstrated the strong sense of community that defines Bluff City. The annual festival remains an important tradition, bringing people together to honor the town's past while celebrating its bright future.
NETWORKS awarded TVA Workforce Invest Grant, partnering with BTES and Sullivan County Schools Partner to Empower Student
NETWORKS Sullivan Partnership has been awarded a Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) Workforce Invest Grant, strengthening efforts to prepare students for future careers through hands-on learning and workforce development initiatives. The grant brings together NETWORKS, Bristol Tennessee Essential Services (BTES), Sullivan County Schools, and other community partners to help students explore career opportunities and build skills that align with the needs of regional employers.
The funding will support programs designed to increase career awareness at an earlier age, expand employer engagement, and provide students with real-world learning experiences. Planned initiatives include enhanced career exploration events, workforce-focused educational programming, and innovative learning opportunities that connect classroom concepts with future career paths.
The grant reflects the region's ongoing commitment to developing a strong local talent pipeline and ensuring that students are aware of the diverse career opportunities available in Northeast Tennessee. By bringing together education, industry, and community leaders, the partnership aims to better align workforce development efforts with the needs of growing sectors such as advanced manufacturing, utilities, and technology.
Through this collaborative effort, students throughout Sullivan County will gain valuable exposure to local careers while developing the knowledge and skills needed for future success. The initiative represents another important step in building the workforce that will support the region's continued economic growth and prosperity for years to come.
E2E Summit Focuses on the Workforce of Tomorrow
Regional leaders from education, business, industry, workforce development, and government came together in August for the 2026 Education to Employment (E2E) Summit, hosted by the First Tennessee Development District (FTDD). Held at the historic Bristol Train Station, the summit provided a forum for meaningful conversations about preparing Northeast Tennessee's workforce for emerging opportunities and the rapidly changing economy.
The annual summit brought together educators, economic developers, employers, students, and community partners to explore the connections between classroom learning and workforce needs. This year's keynote speaker, Dr. Flora W. Tydings, Chancellor of the Tennessee Board of Regents, shared insights on the future of education, workforce development, and the importance of strong partnerships in building Tennessee's talent pipeline.
A major focus of the event was helping the region prepare for industries and technologies that are shaping tomorrow's economy. Panel discussions explored topics including artificial intelligence, the growing nuclear industry, aviation careers, and entrepreneurship. Industry leaders, educators, and students shared perspectives on workforce trends, career opportunities, and the skills needed to compete in a rapidly evolving job market.
The summit also highlighted the importance of regional collaboration. By bringing together leaders from K-12 education, higher education, workforce organizations, chambers of commerce, economic development agencies, and private industry, the event encouraged conversations about aligning educational pathways with employer needs and creating opportunities for students to succeed close to home. Among the organizations supporting the event were regional community partners, including NETWORKS Sullivan Partnership, whose sponsorship helped advance the summit's mission of strengthening the workforce pipeline and supporting long-term economic growth across Northeast Tennessee.
As Northeast Tennessee continues to attract new investment and support the growth of existing industries, initiatives like the Education to Employment Summit play a critical role in ensuring the region has a skilled workforce ready to meet future demands. The 2026 summit reinforced a shared commitment to innovation, collaboration, and preparing the next generation for success in an increasingly competitive economy
Leslie Thompson Leading Workforce and Childcare Initiatives with FTDD
Cheers to Lottie Ryans: Celebrating a Career and a Well-Earned Retirement from FTDD
The Robinette Company Adds to Its Flexible Packaging Division
Tiebreakers Coming to Kingsport
Podcast: Arch About TN - BMS: An Economic Driver
9/11 Memorial Stair Climb at BMS
Sullivan 250 Initiative
NSCC and TCAT Elizabethton Articulation Agreements
ETSU, Kingsport City Schools - AI Innovation Fund Award
TN Child Care Solutions Summit
