GREENE COUNTY, Tenn — Heavy equipment and construction crews are now hard at work reshaping the former Greene Valley Developmental Center into a state-of-the-art educational facility that will soon serve as the new Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) in Greene County.

This major redevelopment project represents a significant investment in both education and workforce development for the region. The upgraded campus will not only house a new health department building, but will also provide specialized training programs in high-demand trades, including welding, HVAC, machine tools, and industrial electricity.

Once completed, the new TCAT campus will offer modern, hands-on learning environments that aim to meet the growing demand for skilled labor in the region.

A Major Investment in Workforce Development

Local leaders see the project as a cornerstone of economic opportunity and career preparation for future generations. State Representative David Hawk, who has been a strong advocate for the transformation, said the initiative is backed by a substantial financial commitment from the state.

"We're going to have a new TCAT that's going to provide ongoing education and training for our students to get them into the workforce as quickly as possible," said Rep. Hawk, emphasizing the importance of aligning education with local industry needs.

He added that "$30 to $35 million has been invested into the project", underscoring the state's dedication to creating long-term opportunities for both students and local businesses.

A Campus with New Purpose

The Greene Valley Developmental Center was once a facility serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Closed in 2017, the site is now being reimagined as a hub for technical education and job training, giving the location new purpose and relevance.

By converting the former campus, officials are leveraging existing infrastructure while creating new, modern spaces tailored for 21st-century workforce needs.

The new TCAT facility is expected to become a regional resource for students seeking fast-tracked, practical education in trades that are seeing strong demand across Tennessee and the broader Appalachian region.

Next Steps and Community Impact

The construction timeline and expected completion date have not yet been officially announced, but local leaders are optimistic that the school will begin accepting students in the near future. When finished, the facility is expected to draw students from across Northeast Tennessee and potentially beyond.

The addition of programs in skilled trades and healthcare aligns with the Tennessee Board of Regents' broader strategy to expand TCAT access statewide and respond to employer needs.

Local businesses are hopeful that the new campus will create a steady pipeline of trained, job-ready graduates to fill positions in manufacturing, HVAC services, healthcare support, and other technical careers that are vital to the region's economy.

Originally reported by Natalea Hillen in WCYB.