Union of Progress

Fostering a sense of community while balancing growth

Union City is a scene straight out of a Hallmark movie. Though it may be a small town with a population of approximately 11,000, it is brimming with activity, history, and opportunity. Union City’s downtown is undergoing a transformation, fostering a stronger sense of community and enthusiasm. Katie Graves, Executive Director of Main Street Union City, shares, “We have a great downtown where people can gather, enjoy coffee, shop, and take in the atmosphere.” We aim to create a space that feels welcoming and vibrant.

Union City’s history is deeply tied to the railroad. Lindsay Theobald, CEO of the Obion County Joint Economic Development Corporation, shares an interesting fact: “Union City got its name from the union of two railroads—the Gulf, Mobile & Ohio Railroad and the Nashville Railroad.” Originally, it was going to be called Junction City, but since another town in East Tennessee already had that name, we became Union City.”

Strengthening foundations

Union City’s leadership has made strategic investments in infrastructure to support continued growth, ensuring that the city remains well-equipped for future development. Johnny McTurner, City Manager, highlights the city’s ongoing projects, emphasizing the importance of maintaining and upgrading essential services.

“Every year, we allocate approximately $1 million to asphalt projects, including street upgrades, water line replacements, and wastewater system improvements,” McTurner says. One of our most significant recent projects was a $4.5 million overhaul of Home Street, during which we replaced water lines, stormwater drains, and wastewater infrastructure. Now, we’re letting it settle before we lay down new asphalt.

The city’s commitment to modernizing its water infrastructure is another major priority. “In 2025, we will be applying for a CDBG grant to upgrade our drinking water lines,” McTurner explains. This will increase pressure and volume, making it easier for new homes and businesses to establish themselves in the area. We’re also exploring additional upgrades to our water system, including increasing storage capacity and replacing outdated pipes to ensure a steady and reliable supply of clean water.”

Union City is also preparing for a significant milestone in regional transportation: the completion of I-69, a major highway project set to enhance connectivity and drive economic growth. “It’s not fully connected on the Dyersburg side yet, but once it is, it will make travel and business expansion much easier for us,” McTurner adds. The improved accessibility will not only benefit local businesses by attracting more customers and investors. Still, it will also position Union City as a key transit hub in Northwest Tennessee, linking it more efficiently to major urban centers.

Green spaces, stronger community

The city is committed to enhancing its parks and recreational facilities, recognizing that green spaces play a crucial role in fostering a sense of community and promoting healthy lifestyles. “We’ve made significant investments in our park system, including the renovation of Graham Park, a project that took several years and cost around $4-5 million,” McTurner explains. This park is one of the most popular recreational spaces in the city, offering something for everyone.

The park features a splash pad where children can cool off in the summer, a skate park for adventure seekers, well-maintained baseball and softball fields that host local leagues, and soccer fields that attract both youth and adult players. Additionally, it includes designated areas for flying model airplanes, making it a hub for hobbyists and sports enthusiasts alike. These improvements have transformed Graham Park into a premier outdoor space for both locals and visitors.

Graves emphasizes the role of community partnerships in these projects, highlighting how collaboration has played a crucial part in enhancing the city’s public spaces. At Kiwanis Park, we refurbished a 120-year-old fountain and added new playground equipment, thanks to a generous gift from the Kiwanis Club. It’s an inclusive playground, so children of all abilities can enjoy it,” she says. 

The playground features adaptive swings, sensory-friendly play elements, and ramps, ensuring that every child, regardless of ability, has a place to play and interact. In addition to the playground, the city has also invested in landscaping and lighting improvements to make Kiwanis Park a welcoming space for families throughout the year.

Pickleball fever

Pickleball has also gained popularity in Union City, emerging as one of the city’s fastest-growing sports. “We installed pickleball courts, and I was skeptical at first, but they’re always in use,” McTurner admits. “It’s taken off with the younger crowd.” What started as a small addition to the city’s recreational offerings has quickly become a go-to activity for residents of all ages.

The courts are now a gathering place for both casual players and competitive enthusiasts, with interest growing to the point where local tournaments and leagues may soon be in development. Given its rising popularity, the city is already exploring the possibility of expanding the facilities to accommodate more players and hosting regional competitions. As Union City continues to invest in recreational opportunities, it solidifies itself as a community where active living is encouraged and celebrated.

Economic momentum

Housing is in high demand in Union City, and new developments are underway to meet this need. “We have a new 32-unit subdivision called Baxter’s Landing, with another 32 planned,” McTurner says. “These are two-bedroom, two-bath units with modern amenities. The rent ranges from $900 to $1,600, making it a great option for downsizing retirees and young professionals.”

Union City’s downtown has seen remarkable revitalization. “Since May 2023, we’ve had eight new businesses open in our downtown district, including restaurants, boutiques, and even a new brewery,” Graves notes. “A private investor and a developer with family ties to Union City, played a huge role in this transformation. They bought and renovated multiple buildings, adding 27 luxury apartments, a coffee shop, and a market. His investment has been a catalyst for downtown growth.”

The industrial sector is also thriving. “Tyson Foods, our largest employer with 1,600 employees, produces chicken McNuggets for McDonald’s,” Theobald says. “We also have Jiffy Steamer, which sells to 55 countries, Waymatic, Greenfield Products, and William Sausage, which was recently acquired by Tyson.”

Building business success

Union City actively supports small businesses and entrepreneurs. “We offer training programs and grants to help small business owners succeed,” Theobald explains. Our Tennessee Placemakers Grant provides resources for new business owners, and we collaborate closely with the Tennessee Small Business Development Centers to support them with business plans and financial statements.

A new development in the city is the recent approval of package liquor sales. “This will generate significant tax revenue that will support infrastructure, schools, and parks,” McTurner states. “Rather than losing that money to Kentucky, we’ll be able to reinvest it in Union City.”

Destination for all seasons

Union City hosts several events that draw visitors from near and far. “Our Christmas tree lighting and parade feel like a Hallmark movie,” Graves says. “We’ve also launched Run the Rails, a half-marathon inspired by our railroad heritage, which attracts runners from multiple states.”

Discovery Park of America is one of the city’s premier attractions. “They host year-round events, including a nationally recognized Christmas light display,” Theobald says. “They’re even in talks to host a major car show, which would be another exciting draw for visitors.”

Union City is also known for outdoor activities. “We have Final Flight Outfitters, the largest gun dealer in Tennessee, which attracts hunters from all over the country,” McTurner adds. And just outside town, Real Foot Lake is a world-renowned destination for duck hunting and fishing.

The next chapter

Looking ahead, Union City’s leaders have ambitious plans that build upon the city’s momentum and strong foundation. “We’re exploring the addition of another elevated water tank to improve water pressure,” McTurner says. “This will not only enhance water access for current residents but also ensure that as we grow, our infrastructure can support new businesses and housing developments. We also aim to continue expanding our industrial park to attract new businesses and create high-quality jobs, reinforcing our role as a regional economic hub.”

For downtown, Graves envisions more community engagement projects that will enhance both the aesthetics and spirit of the area. “I’d love to see more public art, such as mural projects where the community can participate,” she says. “When people feel a sense of ownership and pride in their town, it strengthens our local economy and community bonds. We’re also working on expanding our downtown dining options to attract a fine-dining restaurant that will elevate the city’s culinary scene and provide an upscale experience for locals and visitors.

Theobald sees great potential in Union City’s continued economic growth, noting that the city’s strategic investments in infrastructure and business development are positioning it for long-term success. “We’re positioning ourselves as a regional hub for industry, healthcare, and retail. With our growing infrastructure, strong business community, and quality of life, Union City is on the rise.”

AT A GLANCE

Who: Union City
What: A vibrant small city prominent for its robust industrial base, rich history, and attractions such as Discovery Park of America, making it a hub for business growth, tourism, and community development.
Where: Northwest Tennessee, near the Kentucky border.
Website: www.unioncitytn.gov