The efforts of the Nashville Cohousing (formerly New Amercan Villages) group is bearing fruit. Tennessee's first intentional community organization using the 'cohousing' model has grown from 15-30 interested individuals/households to over 100 participants. One urban community has signed a contract on a property in the Germantown area that is undergoing the necessary preparations for breaking ground. A successful workshop by McCamant & Durrett Architects last summer provided the needed impetus to push this project forward while the larger property in suburban Hermitage undergoes the necessary transactions to partner with both the Land Trust of TN and Metro Nashville to develop this 280 acre former farm into at least two communities combined with small shops and businesses, a CSA farm, expanded greenways and many acres of undeveloped land along the Cumberland River. All this located within walking distance of schools and a major public transportation line. At least two other groups continue to research the area for additional opportunities as the cohousing concept grows here in Middle Tennessee. Local growth with an active economy, viable housing market and low cost of living makes this area an attraction to professionals, young families as well as retirees interested in a active and healthy lifestyle.