DeLisa Guerrier, a real estate tycoon, is breaking new ground in Nashville. She’s spearheading the construction of Storyville Gardens, the city’s first new amusement park since Opryland USA closed in 1997.
Revolutionizing Entertainment and Education in Nashville
Storyville Gardens promises to be more than just rides and attractions. Guerrier envisions a park that combines entertainment with education, focusing on literacy and storytelling.
“Storyville’s mission is to boost literacy while engaging children in an immersive, fun and safe environment,” Guerrier told Essence. The park will feature interactive exhibits, international food options, and a unique literary experience.
From Real Estate to Amusement Parks: Guerrier’s Journey
Guerrier’s path to amusement park development is unconventional. She initially studied biology and pre-med at Fisk University. However, her entrepreneurial journey began when she met her husband.
Together, they grew an automotive business from $100,000 to nearly $10 million in revenue. This success led Guerrier to explore new ventures, ultimately landing in real estate development.
Breaking Barriers in a Male-Dominated Industry
As a Black woman in construction and development, Guerrier is a rarity. African Americans make up only 6% of the construction industry’s workforce, despite being 12% of U.S. workers.
Undeterred by these statistics, Guerrier remarked, “There aren’t a lot of us, but we never paid attention to that.” Her company, Guerrier Development, now oversees the $1.3 billion amusement park project.
Filling a Gap in Nashville’s Family Entertainment
The idea for Storyville Gardens arose from a personal need. Guerrier and her husband noticed a lack of family-friendly entertainment options in Nashville.
“My husband and I have three children, and I grew up in California, where there were always things to do,” Guerrier told StyleBlueprint. This gap inspired them to create a park that offers both fun and educational experiences.
A Vision for the Future: Opening in 2025
Storyville Gardens has been in the planning stages for several years. The park is set to open its doors in 2025, offering a new destination for families in Nashville and beyond.
Guerrier’s project not only fills an entertainment void but also represents a significant step forward for diversity in large-scale development projects. It showcases the impact of innovative thinking and determination in creating new opportunities.
