Cookeville, September 25, 2025
News Summary
Construction has commenced on the new Willows Shopping Center in Cookeville, which is set to feature a Target store and create hundreds of jobs. The $60 million project aims to enhance the shopping experience in the area, with plans for additional retail and dining options. The center will also benefit from infrastructure improvements to support the growing community, with the opening anticipated in the fall of 2026.
Construction Begins for $60 Million Willows Shopping Center in Cookeville, Set to Open Fall 2026
The much-anticipated The Willows Shopping Center is officially under construction in Cookeville, with a groundbreaking ceremony taking place in April 2025. This new development is projected to cost around $60 million and promises to significantly enhance the local economy with the creation of approximately 350 to 400 jobs.
At the heart of this shopping center is a new Target store, which is being built at 1100 S. Willow Ave., with its construction alone estimated to cost $15 million. The Willows Shopping Center is excited to feature not only the Target store but also a Home Depot and a variety of restaurants, making it a prime shopping destination for both residents and visitors.
Strategically positioned at Cookeville’s Exit 286 off Interstate 40, the shopping center is set to become easily accessible for those traveling through the area. The ongoing development follows the recent approval of a grant proposal for infrastructure improvements in the South Willow Avenue-Green Gate Lane area, signaling strong community support for the project.
In the month of August alone, Cookeville saw the issuance of 74 building permits, with the new Target store leading the list as the most significant project. This increase in construction activity highlights a robust development climate in the area, reflected in several other ongoing projects. These include a $1.3 million McDonald’s restaurant at 1201 N. Washington Ave. and a $1,116,000 project for Neal Street LLC.
Several permits were issued for commercial remodels as well. Notable projects include a renovation at Engrafted Word Church costing $169,450, and a remodel for Cookeville Mall Partners valued at $604,044. Residential construction is also thriving, with 43 residential construction permits issued last month, including 26 for new single-family houses and 13 for single-family attached housing.
Along with these developments, Cookeville has observed a range of residential remodel projects, with costs varying from $6,000 to $125,000. Six demolition permits were also issued, indicating a dynamic environment for construction and development in the region.
The Willows Shopping Center is expected to open its doors in Fall 2026, and its successful completion will mark a significant milestone in Cookeville’s retail landscape, providing not only job opportunities but also a variety of shopping and dining options for the community.
Key Features of The Willows Shopping Center
- Total Investment: $60 million
- Opening Date: Fall 2026
- Location: 1100 S. Willow Ave., Cookeville
- Estimated Jobs Created: 350 to 400
- Target Store Cost: $15 million
- Other Planned Tenants: Home Depot and various restaurants
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total investment for The Willows Shopping Center?
The development is projected to be a $60 million investment.
When is The Willows Shopping Center expected to open?
The shopping center is expected to open in Fall 2026.
How many jobs will the construction of The Willows Shopping Center create?
The development is projected to create between 350 to 400 jobs for the Cookeville area.
Where is the Target store located?
The new Target store is under construction at 1100 S. Willow Ave..
What is the estimated cost of the Target store?
The estimated cost of the Target store is $15 million.
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Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
Additional Resources
- Herald-Citizen: Target Tops August Building Permits
- Google Search: Target store Cookeville
- 3B Media News: Construction Begins on New Target and Home Depot in Cookeville
- Wikipedia: Target Corporation
- Herald-Citizen: Target, Home Depot Officially Coming to Cookeville
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Home Improvement
- Herald-Citizen: Is Target Coming to Cookeville?
- Google News: Cookeville construction
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