The Nashville Department of Transportation and Multimodal Infrastructure (NDOT) is currently assessing the fire-damaged structure of the Downtown Public Library Parking Garage. The cause of the fire and extent of the damage is currently being investigated and assessed and structural engineers are on site. More information is expected later. The garage is owned by NDOT and operated by the Nashville Downtown Partnership.
“I appreciate the quick work of Nashville Fire Department crews to get the fire under control and ensure safety for those nearby,” said Mayor Freddie O’Connell. “We encourage patience as structural engineers from NDOT assess and determine the extent of the damage to the garage and any timeline for reopening.”
Nashville Downtown Partnership and Parking Management Company (PMC) staff are on site directing customers to alternative parking locations and customers are encouraged to utilize the nearby garage located at 147 4th Ave N. Monthly parkers are being notified by PMC with alternative parking options.
Individuals who have vehicles or property stored in the garage should call 615-352-0415x131 or fill out this form: Information Form about vehicles or property stored in garage
The Main Library at 615 Church Street is closed today. Nashville Public Library encourages customers to visit its other library locations across Davidson County and use the public library online.
The Nashville Fire Department (NFD) investigation is active and ongoing.
Nashville Fire Department Fire Investigators are working to identify the cause of the fire. A preliminary review of the scene doesn't indicate any signs of foul play.
Earlier this morning, the Nashville Fire Department shared the information below:
At approximately 1:22am Nashville Fire Department crews were dispatched to a multi-story parking garage at 523 Church Street. When they arrived, with heavy smoke showing. After making an interior attack, smoke and fire were primarily located between the third and fourth floors, involving multiple vehicles. A second alarm response was called to provide additional manpower. Multiple handlines were deployed from multiple sides of the structure, with crews accessing the fire via stairwells and standpipe connections. Ladder trucks were used for both aerial access and smoke ventilation.
During operations, NFD crews found that a ramp between the fourth and fifth floors collapsed and several columns and beams on the same floors were showing signs of spalling, causing significant structural compromise. Once the fire was contained, command transitioned to defensive operations only. [No one] was allowed to re-enter the building after this time, until it could be cleared by a structural engineer.
Crews worked methodically to establish safe egress routes, perform fire suppression, and maintain accountability. A rehab area was established for personnel, and no injuries to firefighters or civilians were reported. There was some smoke that reportedly impacted the Nashville Public Library and the Renaissance Hotel. The hotel was temporarily evacuated out of precaution.
NES and Piedmont were on site to assist with power and gas control. The scene was turned over to NFD Fire Investigators, and NDOT Structural Engineer Team.
No additional information will be provided at this time.
To report a non-emergency issue affecting a Metro Nashville street, visit hub.nashville.gov.