One 12 South resident has found a Halloween-inspired way to recognize beloved businesses that have closed down.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — It’s a burial site for 12 South businesses.
One neighborhood home has found a Halloween-inspired way to recognize beloved places that have closed down. That includes “Mafiaozas,” a popular pizza place that closed down just this month after more than 20 years in business.
News 2 spoke with residents who were open about the rapid development happening in their neighborhood. One woman who has lived in that area since 2008 said simply: “it’s not the same.”
On the front yard of a residence on Belmont Boulevard, more than a dozen headstones are spread out in remembrance of different businesses that have come and gone in 12 South. While the homeowner was not present when News 2 stopped by, countless others said that they appreciate the decorations.
“It’s kind of sad when you see the places that you’ve been to and have memories with turn over and new places jump in,” Nashville native and 12 South resident, Kaycie Williams, said.
Whether the change is due to rising rent prices, inflation, or just a lack of foot traffic, many of the mom-and-pop shops in 12 South have slowly been pushed out.
“I’ve lived here my whole life,” Williams added. “I’ve seen the change. I’ve also moved out and moved back in a couple times. It’s always shocking when I move back.”
News 2 reached out to the Metro Councilmember for 12 South’s district, Tom Cash, for comment. However, as of publication, Cash has not yet responded.
“As long as they’re making money, places will stay,” Williams said. “I think we just have to be really intentional on where we go and how we spend our dollar and help support some of these businesses.”