Construction has started on The Willows, a new retail center at 1100 South Willow Avenue in Cookeville, with a groundbreaking ceremony attended by city and county officials and CHM, LLC. The development, led by Development Management Group, LLC and CHM, will feature Target, Home Depot, and a variety of other shopping and dining options.

Set to open in October 2026, The Willows is expected to drive significant economic growth, create new opportunities, and keep local spending within the community, according to Cookeville Mayor Laurin Wheaton and Chamber of Commerce President Amy New.