WILSON COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN) — Between 2010 and 2020, Tennessee's population grew by about 2 million people. One of the areas that's seen the most new neighbors is Wilson County.

With pastoral views, new home construction and expanding downtowns, it's a county on the move.

"There are a lot of reasons," Melanie Minter, President & CEO of the Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce, said when asked why more people have moved to the area. "I will stick number one with our people. People that come to our community love Wilson County ... Wilson County is known for its entrepreneurs. It's known for people that want to be a part of our community. They're our friends. They're our neighbors. They're the people that we want to shop with and play with and be around."

Wilson County has not only grown in population, it's also expanded its business footprint. It's attracted national brands like Amazon, which has a fulfillment center there, and Under Armour, which has a distribution center there. It's home to the corporate headquarters of Cracker Barrel.

"It's always easier once they [other national businesses] see a business that is here that is very successful," Minter told News 2.

Leaders point to easy interstate access, close proximity to the Nashville International Airport, a goal-achieving public school system and abundant available land as amenities that make the area attractive for new residents and businesses alike.

Growth means changes — like new housing developments and new stores. Not everyone wants change and growth.

"It is important to make the people that this has always been their home happy. That is something that they strive to make as a priority. We want this to be a hometown, but we also know that there are things that we need to do differently," Minter said. "With growth comes a little pain [and] sometimes a few challenges, but as long as we are all on the same page and we are communicating and educating our community, that's the most important."

What can Wilson County expect in the next five to 10 years as they build toward the future?

"We're going to continue to grow. People love it here. People are moving from everywhere — from Chicago, California — so we know those people are moving in. Again, it's about educating those people about what we have to offer here in Wilson County," Minter said. "Once you're here, you feel that sense of loyalty. You feel that sense of, 'I want to be a part of what's happening here,' and that really differentiates us between other counties."

News Source : https://www.wkrn.com/news/local-news/on-tour-middle-tn/wilson-county-leveraging-growth-to-attract-new-businesses/