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
Construction has officially started for the Willows Shopping Center in Cookeville with a groundbreaking ceremony that took place in April 2025. This ambitious project is set to bring a fresh shopping experience to the area, with an estimated investment of $60 million.
New Target Store Headlining the Center
One of the main attractions of the Willows Shopping Center will be a brand new Target store, currently under construction at 1100 S. Willow Ave. This store represents a significant investment of approximately $15 million, making it the highlight of the development.
Expectations for a Diverse Shopping Experience
The shopping center is strategically located at Cookeville’s Exit 286 off Interstate 40, making it easily accessible for locals and visitors alike. Alongside Target, the center is expected to house a Home Depot and a variety of restaurants, creating a bustling hub for shopping and dining for the community.
Job Creation Potential
The Willows Shopping Center is projected to create between 350 to 400 jobs in the Cookeville area, contributing positively to the local economy. This potential for job creation aligns with the city’s ongoing growth and development initiatives.
Supporting Infrastructure Improvements
To further enhance the area, Cookeville and Putnam County have approved a grant proposal for infrastructure improvements in the South Willow Avenue-Green Gate Lane area. These enhancements will support not only the shopping center but the surrounding neighborhood as well.
Recent Building Activity in Cookeville
The Willows project is just one of many construction activities taking place in Cookeville. Last month, a total of 74 building permits were issued, with the new Target leading the way. Among other notable commercial projects approved in August are:
- $1.3 million McDonald’s restaurant at 1201 N. Washington Ave
- $1,116,000 project for Neal Street LLC
- $30,000 project by Jonathan Norris at 611 Rich Froning Way
- $464,000 project by Slingshot Partners, LLC at 1696 W. Broad St
- Two $248,000 projects by Ronald Slade Stroud at 1781 Browns Mill Road, Suites C and D
In addition to new constructions, nine commercial remodel permits were also issued, totaling significant investments in local businesses. Notable remodel projects include:
- $169,450 project at Engrafted Word Church (5 W. Broad St)
- $10,000 project for Living Hope Church Ministries (1020 E. Spring St)
- $604,044 project for Cookeville Mall Partners at 400 Dubois Road
- $1.2 million project for Hudson Property, LLC
- $399,000 project for the City of Cookeville
Residential Construction On the Rise
It’s not just commercial projects that are thriving; Cookeville also issued 43 residential construction permits last month. This includes:
- 26 for new single-family houses
- 13 for single-family attached housing
- Four for multi-family housing
Additionally, eight residential remodel projects were granted permits, with costs ranging from $6,000 to $125,000. A total of six demolition permits and one fence permit at 4503 South Creek Road were also filed.
Looking Ahead
The Willows Shopping Center is anticipated to open its doors in the Fall of 2026, inviting shoppers into a modern retail environment. With significant investments and job creation on the horizon, the project aims to enrich the Cookeville community while enhancing regional commerce.
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
Author: Construction FL News
FLORIDA STAFF WRITER The FLORIDA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructionflnews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florida and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florida Build Expo, major infrastructure projects, and advancements in construction technology showcases. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Associated Builders and Contractors of Florida and the Florida Home Builders Association, plus leading businesses in construction and legal services that power the local economy such as CMiC Global and Shutts & Bowen LLP. As part of the broader network, including constructioncanews.com, constructionnynews.com, and constructiontxnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic construction landscape across multiple states.
