Tennessee Governor Bill Lee announced his support for renaming Nashville International Airport in honor of the late country music legend Dolly Parton. The proposal aims to create a lasting tribute to Parton's legacy.
The proposed renaming of Nashville International Airport to Dolly Parton International Airport signifies a significant public tribute to a beloved cultural icon, reflecting her deep impact on Tennessee and beyond.
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee announced on Friday his support for a proposal to rename Nashville International Airport in honor of the late country music icon Dolly Parton. Lee stated that the renaming would serve as a lasting tribute to Parton's significant legacy and the inspiration she provided.
Lee mentioned he had previously discussed the idea with Parton and her team, who were reportedly touched by the proposal. He emphasized Parton's deep connection to Tennessee, calling her "our state's favorite daughter" and suggesting the airport is a fitting place to welcome travelers with her enduring spirit.
The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority (MNAA) is scheduled to consider the proposal at a meeting on September 17. MNAA President Doug Kreulen echoed the sentiment, highlighting Parton's values of dignity, kindness, and opportunity.
The movement to rename the airport has gained momentum, with a petition circulating and gathering over 150,000 signatures. Petition organizer Dan Dion noted the symbolic significance of flying into "Parton Airport" and how Parton represents Tennessee's core values.
Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell also indicated that this potential airport renaming is just the beginning of metropolitan tributes to Parton, referencing her ongoing project, a hotel and museum called SongTeller, which she described as her "love letter to Nashville."