Quarterly Newsletter
Community Stakeholders Report - Quarter Three - 2025
NETWORKS Sullivan Partnership Pursues State Funding to Advance Industrial Site Readiness
NETWORKS Sullivan Partnership has applied for funding assistance through the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development’s (TNECD) Site Development Grant program to support critical improvements that will enhance the competitiveness of a key industrial property in Sullivan County.
The requested funding would be used for site grading improvements and the installation of complimentary utility infrastructure at the site. both of which are essential to overcoming the challenges presented by the site’s existing topography. These enhancements are designed to increase the property’s marketability and accelerate the potential to attract new industrial tenants in the near future.
Upon completion of the grading improvements, the 41-acre site will be able to accommodate 2 larger industrial companies with the larger pad being able to accommodate buildings up to 250,000SF.
This project reflects NETWORKS Sullivan Partnership’s ongoing commitment to preparing market-ready industrial sites that drive investment, job creation, and long-term economic growth throughout Northeast Tennessee.
BTES awarded TVA InvestPrep Grant for Bristol South Site
Bristol Tennessee Essential Services (BTES) has been awarded a Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) InvestPrep Site Development Grant to support grading and infrastructure improvements on approximately 45 acres along Highway 394 in Bristol, Tennessee.
The property, owned by BTES, sits adjacent to the utility’s new substation currently under construction and represents a strategic opportunity to prepare additional land for future industrial and commercial development. Through the InvestPrep program, TVA partners with local power companies and economic development organizations to enhance site readiness and strengthen the region’s competitiveness for new business investment.
BTES’s continued investment in both infrastructure and site preparation is helping ensure Bristol and the surrounding area remain positioned for growth and aligns with our region’s broader efforts to attract quality jobs and new industries to Northeast Tennessee.
Work supported by the grant will focus on grading, access, and utility improvements—key steps in transforming the property into a market-ready site that can meet the needs of prospective companies seeking to locate or expand in the area.
Premier Transportation Expands Operations in Kingsport
Premier Transportation is hitting the road to growth with its latest expansion in Kingsport, marking a major investment in both the community and the region’s transportation network. The company recently acquired a 2.5-acre site near the I-26/I-81 interchange and has begun construction on a new 7,000-square-foot facility that will include multiple service bays and a dedicated indoor wash bay.
This expansion represents Premier’s return to the Tri-Cities area, where the company previously operated before the pandemic. The new location will create more than 35 jobs, including drivers and support staff, and will add around 15 new motorcoaches to its growing fleet.
Operations are expected to begin by May 2026, positioning Premier to provide faster, more efficient service across Kingsport, Johnson City, Bristol, and beyond.
Premier’s investment underscores the growing confidence in Northeast Tennessee’s business climate and adds another success story to the region’s expanding list of transportation and logistics assets—helping move both people and progress forward.
US Antibiotics Partners with Walmart and McKesson to Strengthen U.S. Amoxicillin Production
In a significant move to bolster domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing, USAntibiotics, the nation's sole manufacturer of amoxicillin and amoxicillin clavulanate, has announced a strategic collaboration with Walmart and McKesson. This partnership aims to enhance the U.S. supply of these essential antibiotics, ensuring greater accessibility and reliability for patients nationwide.
The collaboration will see USAntibiotics supply millions of life-saving doses of amoxicillin directly to Walmart pharmacies and to McKesson for distribution to pharmacies, health systems, and healthcare providers across the country. This initiative aligns with McKesson’s commitment to fortify the U.S. supply chain and strengthen healthcare access through its digitally connected distribution network. It also supports Walmart’s pledge to invest an additional $350 billion in products made, grown, or assembled in the United States by 2030.
US Antibiotics operates a world-class, 394,000-square-foot production facility in Bristol, Tennessee, with the capacity to produce enough amoxicillin products to meet 100 percent of the nation’s demand for these essential medications. The collaboration with Walmart and McKesson is a significant step forward in helping Americans have stable access to high-quality, domestically produced antibiotics through one of the nation’s largest pharmacy networks.
This partnership not only strengthens the domestic pharmaceutical industry but also underscores a collective commitment to supporting U.S. manufacturing and ensuring the health security of the nation.
Kingsport Breaks Ground on New IMAX Theater at Fort Henry Mall
Kingsport is set to welcome a state-of-the-art IMAX theater at Fort Henry Mall, marking a significant milestone in the city's entertainment landscape. On August 20, 2025, city officials and community leaders gathered for the groundbreaking ceremony of the new IMAX theater, signaling the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the mall and the region.
The project involves an expansion of the existing NCG Cinema within the mall, introducing a 400-seat IMAX theater equipped with luxury seating and enhanced concession options. This upgrade aims to provide moviegoers with an immersive cinematic experience, making Kingsport a destination for film enthusiasts.
Hull Property Group, the owner of Fort Henry Mall, has partnered with NCG Cinemas to bring this project to fruition. The addition of the IMAX theater is expected to revitalize the mall, attract visitors from surrounding areas, and contribute to the local economy by creating jobs and increasing foot traffic.
While the official opening date has not been announced, the project is slated for completion by mid-summer 2026. This development underscores Kingsport's commitment to enhancing its entertainment offerings and providing residents and visitors with top-tier amenities.
MLB Speedway Classic 2025: A Historic Night at Bristol Motor Speedway
On August 2, 2025, Major League Baseball made history by hosting its first-ever regular-season game in Tennessee at Bristol Motor Speedway. The MLB Speedway Classic featured a thrilling matchup between the Atlanta Braves and the Cincinnati Reds, attracting a record-breaking crowd of over 85,000 fans.
Despite a rain delay that pushed the game into the following day, the event showcased the seamless integration of baseball and NASCAR culture. The Braves emerged victorious with a 4–2 win over the Reds, highlighted by Eli White's two home runs.
The Speedway Classic not only set an attendance record but also featured ceremonial first pitches by Hall of Famers Chipper Jones and Johnny Bench, and pre-game performances by Tim McGraw and Pitbull.
This landmark event underscored the growing synergy between baseball and motorsports, leaving an indelible mark on Tennessee's sports history.
Bass Pro Shops Night Race: Bristol Shines Under the Lights
More than just a race, the event is a celebration for the region. Local businesses, restaurants, and hotels benefit from an influx of visitors, while families and fans enjoy the full BMS experience, from tailgating and fan zones to live entertainment and special infield activities.
On the track, drivers will battle for victory on the oval, delivering the thrills and excitement that make Bristol a centerpiece of NASCAR’s season. Off the track, the Night Race highlights BMS’s role in bringing the community together, providing an unforgettable experience that blends racing tradition with local pride.
The Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway isn’t just about the laps—it’s about celebrating our community, our fans, and the energy that makes Bristol a destination for motorsports.
Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion 2025: A Celebration of Music and Heritage
The 24th annual Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion took place from September 19 to 21, 2025, in Historic Downtown Bristol, Tennessee-Virginia. This three-day festival, produced by the Birthplace of Country Music, celebrated Bristol's rich musical heritage, rooted in the legendary 1927 Bristol Sessions.
Over the weekend, nearly 100 artists performed across 12 stages, blending tradition and innovation to showcase the evolution of roots music. From classic sounds to contemporary interpretations, the festival offered something for every music lover.
The festival also featured special events such as Radio Bristol’s 10th-anniversary celebration, including a live taping of "Farm and Fun Time" at the Paramount Bristol, and the debut of Dave Eggar as the first Artist in Residence. Eggar, a GRAMMY-nominated cellist, brought his genre-defying talent to the stage, further enriching the festival's diverse musical offerings.
Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion continues to be a community celebration of music, culture, and heritage, bringing together residents and visitors alike to honor the past while embracing the future of roots music.
Fun Fest 2025: Kingsport’s Ultimate Summer Celebration
Kingsport, Tennessee, came alive from July 18–26, 2025, with the return of Fun Fest, a nine-day celebration packed with music, sports, family activities, and community events. Fun Fest continues to be a beloved tradition, attracting tens of thousands of attendees from the region and beyond.
The festival kicked off with the Trash Barrel Paint-In at Allandale Mansion, where local artists and community members transformed ordinary trash barrels into vibrant works of art—blending creativity with environmental awareness.
Music was a highlight of the festival, with the Sunset Concert Series at J. Fred Johnson Stadium featuring performances by Tauren Wells & We Are Messengers, Bret Michaels & Edwin McCain, and Brad Paisley & Avery Anna. The weekend wrapped up with the Eastman Fireworks Spectacular, lighting up the Kingsport sky.
Fun Fest also showcased community spirit through the parade, a vibrant procession of floats, marching bands, and local groups.
Fun Fest once again highlighted Kingsport’s vibrant community spirit, offering something for everyone—whether you love music, sports, art, or just spending time with family.
Bluff City Heritage Days 2025: A Celebration of Community and Tradition
Main Street in Bluff City was buzzing with life on Saturday, September 27, as residents and visitors gathered for the 31st Annual Bluff City Heritage Days, a beloved tradition that showcased the best of small-town spirit, history, and hospitality.
From early morning through the evening, the air was filled with the sounds of live music, laughter, and the aroma of hometown favorites cooking on the grill. Local vendors lined the streets, offering handmade crafts, baked goods, and unique finds that reflected the creativity and pride of Bluff City’s artisans.
Families turned out in full force to enjoy a day of fun and fellowship. Children’s activities and inflatables added extra excitement for the youngest visitors, while car and motorcycle enthusiasts admired an impressive lineup of classic rides gleaming under the fall sun.
As the day came to a close with live music echoing down Main Street, one thing was clear — Heritage Days isn’t just a festival. It’s a reminder that community isn’t built in a day, but celebrated in moments like these.
Kingsport wins TN Municipal League Award for Excellence in Economic and Community Development
Kingsport’s Main Street Revitalization Earns Statewide Recognition
Kingsport’s $20 million Main Street Rebuild project has been honored with the Tennessee Municipal League’s Award for Excellence in Economic and Community Development, recognizing the city’s transformative investment in downtown. The project replaced aging infrastructure, placed utilities underground, and added pedestrian-friendly features such as new sidewalks, lighting, and landscaping.
Beyond the infrastructure improvements, the effort has brought new energy and economic activity to downtown—strengthening local businesses, improving safety, and creating a more vibrant space for residents and visitors to enjoy. The recognition highlights Kingsport’s continued commitment to revitalization and community growth.
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Tri-Cities Airport Takes Off with Breeze Airways
Travel just got easier for Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia! Tri-Cities Airport (TRI) is welcoming Breeze Airways, offering convenient nonstop flights to Orlando, Florida, and Washington, D.C. on Fridays and Mondays. Whether for a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or business travel, these new routes give the region more choices and greater flexibility.
Breeze Airways, known for its “Seriously Nice” approach, delivers affordable fares, extra-legroom seating, and streamlined service between secondary airports—making travel simple, comfortable, and convenient. Their arrival at TRI reflects a shared vision for boosting regional connectivity and supporting local economic growth.
Gene Cossey, President and CEO of Tri-Cities Airport Authority, emphasized the significance of the new service: “Bringing a new airline to TRI is the result of years of work, strong partnerships, and steady support from travelers across the region.”
With Breeze Airways joining TRI, the airport continues to strengthen its role as a gateway for the region, connecting residents and visitors to exciting destinations while supporting tourism, business, and community growth.
NETWORKS awarded TVA Workforce Invest Grant, partnering with BTES and Bristol City Schools Partner to Expand Career Exploration
NETWORKS Sullivan Partnership is proud to once again partner with Bristol Tennessee Essential Services (BTES) in applying for the next round of TVA’s Workforce Invest Grant program. This new proposal builds on the momentum and impact of previously awarded grants that supported career exploration initiatives in both Bristol City Schools and Sullivan County Schools.
The proposed project aims to further expand hands-on career readiness tools and experiences for local students, helping to prepare the region’s future workforce by deepening their understanding of in-demand career pathways across Northeast Tennessee.
“We’re excited to continue this collaboration with BTES and our school systems,” said Clay Walker, CEO of NETWORKS Sullivan Partnership. “The TVA Workforce Invest program has proven to be a catalyst for meaningful engagement between education and industry, and we look forward to building on that success.”
Stay tuned for updates as the application progresses and we continue working to strengthen workforce development across our region.
NETWORKS joins community partners in sponsoring E2E Summit
The First Tennessee Development District (FTDD) hosted its annual Education to Employment Summit in August. NETWORKS Sullivan Partnership joined forces with other community partners to sponsor the E2E Summit. The event brought together educators, business leaders, workforce development professionals, and community stakeholders to explore innovative strategies for connecting students with meaningful career opportunities.
The summit highlighted the importance of collaboration between schools, employers, and community organizations in preparing a skilled workforce for the region. Attendees engaged in panels, workshops, and discussions focused on workforce readiness, career pathways, and ways to align education with local economic needs.
NETWORKS Sullivan Partnership is commited to workforce development, education, and community growth. By supporting initiatives like the Education to Employment Summit, NETWORKS and its partners are helping ensure that the next generation is equipped with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in Northeast Tennessee.
Gearing up to Welcome Site Selectors for Northeast TN Red Carpet Tour
Staff and community partners have been preparing for The Northeast Tennessee Red Carpet Tour on October 1 & 2! This two-day event spotlights the region’s top industrial sites, workforce assets, and unmatched quality of life. Guests will enjoy the hospitality of MeadowView Resort and Conference Center, as well as curated experiences highlighting local attractions in each host community. From the natural beauty of Bays Mountain, the excitement of Bristol Motor Speedway, the rich culture at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, and the workforce innovation hub RCAM (Regional Center for Advanced Manufacturing). We welcome site selectors and industry leaders to discover why Northeast Tennessee is built for business.
