Patty Blackburn-Staff
The Tennessean Truck Stop, which had been in business since 1974, was destroyed by a tragic fire in July 2021. Opinions by many were made on the future of this site, but the fact is the new Tennessean will be “bigger and better” than the previous truck stop.
Greg Sachs, owner of the Tennessean since 2017, unveiled rebuilding plans in a ground breaking event, August 12, 2022. “The Tennessean has always been a tradition in Marshall County for its locals, truck drivers, and travelers. Now our aim it to make it a destination,” stated Sachs.
Construction is presently underway on the 25,000 square foot Tennessean Travel Stop. New features are being added to take advantage of the growing population in the county. Included in the plans is a comfortable lounge as well as multiple showers for the truck drivers. The convenience store will be tripled in size and will have a country atmosphere including a large fireplace. The same delicious foods will be served in the spacious restaurant along with a buffet – larger than before. An outside courtyard will be connected to the restaurant that patrons can take advantage of. There will be private dining areas, an ice cream shop with coffee and donuts, pizza, wings, hot and cold sandwiches will be served at the quick service deli. A drive through service will be available to order food to go.
On the second floor, there will be a bar and lounge with outdoor seating. Large screen TV’s will be placed on walls, there will be state-of-the-art lighting throughout the building, and live music several times a week.
Beautiful landscaping will be in the front and back of the Tennessean Travel Stop. Astro turf is to be installed on the back courtyard along with tables to be used by those who wish to eat their ice cream, pizza, etc. outside, or perhaps play a game of corn hole.
A Dog Park will be at the back of the business. This will definitely benefit vacationers who travel with their doggies.
There will be approximately 100 people employed when the iconic business opens. The two top priorities of management will focus on customer service and cleanliness.
“The main objective,” stated Sachs, “is to have family, friends, and the community gather for the memorable times. Effortless time and energy have been spent on focusing on how to make this possible. This is my dream.”Due to not being able to acquire materials, construction is taking a bit longer, but the Tennessean Travel Stop will be worth the wait.
