Murfreesboro, TN - Rutherford County is taking a closer look at the former Bank of America complex in downtown Murfreesboro as a potential solution to its growing need for office space. County Mayor Joe Carr confirmed during a WGNS broadcast that a detailed study is underway to determine whether the East Main Street property—just behind Shacklett’s Photography—can accommodate departments like the Election Commission and County Codes.

With the county’s population booming, Carr emphasized the importance of creating more accessible and spacious facilities for residents. The current Goldstein building on the south side of the Public Square, while historically significant, would require costly renovations to serve as modern office space. And even then, it wouldn’t be large enough for future expansion.

Goldstein Building May Become Museum Expansion

Rather than retrofit the Goldstein building for administrative use, Mayor Carr has a different vision—one rooted in preserving Rutherford County’s rich heritage. He hopes to transform the building into an extension of the county museum, which has already seen success inside the Historic Rutherford County Courthouse.

The courthouse was built in 1859, and is one of only six antebellum courthouses still in use across Tennessee. It once hosted the state capital from 1819 to 1826 and played a pivotal role during the Civil War, serving as a headquarters, watchtower, and even a prison for both Confederate and Union forces.

Preserving History and Honoring Legacy

Carr noted that the county archives are brimming with historical artifacts waiting for display, and many longtime residents have heirlooms they’re eager to share with the public. The Goldstein building, he said, is more than bricks and mortar—it’s a symbol of Murfreesboro’s commercial and immigrant history.

William Goldstein, who arrived from Lithuania with little more than a backpack of merchandise, built the store into a retail powerhouse that once rivaled national giants like Macy’s and Saks. But Goldstein’s Department Store was more than a business—it was a social hub, a fashion destination, and a testament to resilience and entrepreneurial spirit.

Decision Expected by Year’s End

The county still has time under its agreement with the Bank of America property owners.

“If the county inspections turn out like we expect—our hope is to ‘close’ on the agreement before the end of the year,” Carr said.

The contract allows for a 120-day inspection period, and officials are optimistic about what lies ahead.

As Rutherford County continues to grow, its leaders are working to balance progress with preservation, assuring that future generations have both the needed space and a place where the public can share the history that has shaped this community.

WGNS will keep you updated as the county moves forward.