News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Gainesboro’s Old Shamrock Motel has been purchased and will be transformed into a boutique hotel.
The building is currently used for apartments and office space. Gainesboro Alderwoman Nancy Pruett said the sale will close later in January following a final inspection. She said the buyer plans to put some $5 million into the building to open a 16-room facility.
“We have one or two bed and breakfasts that’s located right here in town, maybe three, but they’re just one or two rooms, so we really just don’t have anywhere if someone wanted to come and visit and stay, so this will be a huge asset for us,” Pruett said.
Pruett said the unique, quaint style of the small boutique hotel will create space for visitors while also maintaining Gainesboro’s small-town feel.
“Well, first of all, visually,” Pruett said. “It sits on one side of our square. It’s on Main Street, and part of it has been in disarray for several years now, so visually, it will help. Plus, we are starting to get some businesses in town.”
Jackson County native Jamie Dailey referred the Nashville buyer to the property. Pruett said the man already owns property in Jackson County. Pruett said the concept of renovating the space or building a new hotel has been discussed as a need for the future as Jackson County and Gainesboro grow.
“We’re already known for our Bull and Thistle, our Stolen Coin, and a few restaurants, and we’re getting a museum which is coming into town,” Pruett said. “So, we’re needing places for people to stay, which we do not have. We’re very limited. Gainesboro is limited in space as far as structures.”
Pruett said she believes that minor construction will begin shortly after the sale closes. She said this would be a big eye-opener for people visiting Gainesboro or just passing through.
