Exit 1 growth explosion continues: Cheeseburgers, Ice Cream and O’Connor’s woo neighbors

By David W. Shelton | December 20, 2007 |

Residents who live near Exit 1 in Clarksville have seen a level of growth in the number of homes and businesses which begs the question, “how did THAT happen?” Congestion has given way to newly widened and repaved roads, along with the opening of Tiny Town Road’s improvements. A stop light has been added to the west bound exit of I-24, which is a breath of fresh air to motorists who have struggled with the intersection. If nothing else, these road improvements are a clear indicator of major developments in the area.

However, one doesn’t have to look very far to see this development. This month, Cheeseburger Charley’s and Cold Stone Creamery opened brand new locations with a grand opening that drew hundreds on a cold, wet Saturday. The stores are located in a strip mall in an outlot of the Great Escape Theatre at the corner of Tiny Town Road and Trenton Road. Construction has begun on what is rumored to be a new Walgreen’s store. O’Connor’s, a new Irish pub & grill, will open at the intersection of Tylertown Road and Trenton Road later this month.

Cheeseburger Charley’s and Cold Stone Creamery’s grand opening celebration drew dignitaries from all over town, and State Representative Joe Pitts and James Chavez, president and CEO of the Clarksville-Montgomery County Economic Development Council were both on hand to share in the festivities. Both Pitts and Chavez entertained crowds as “guest performers” at the Cold Stone Creamery. Kenwood High School’s drum line and drill team also performed in what was a very crowded Cheeseburger Charley’s restaurant. Kris Bender, the franchise owner said, “We’ve been blessed. This crowd is great considering the weather.”

If burgers and ice cream aren’t enough for local residents, then they’ll be happy to know that Little Caesar’s Pizza and an (as yet unnamed) Mexican restaurant will fill other spaces in the shopping center.

The area will also soon welcome O’Connor’s, a new Irish pub & grill, which is slated to open near the end of this month. This will be the first bar and grill to cater to the 21-up crowd in the area.

Greg Parbs, co-owner of the new endeavor, said that along with serving Guiness and Bass on tap, O’Connor’s will also feature the usual beers and wine coolers that are widely available in the community. Lunch will also be served, with a special focus on corned beef Rueben sandwiches and other familiar Irish fare. The menu, which is still under development, is expected to have a “bar style” flavor.

O’Connor’s will allow smoking (only those over 21 will be admitted), while ventilation will allow smokers and non-smokers to coexist in relative harmony. Plasma TV screens adorn the walls, and will entertain guests while they enjoy live music. Along with pool tables and a large bar, O’Connor’s features a full stage and dance floor for local (and non-local) bands to rock the house.

Parbs said that O’Connor’s will open December 27th, just in time for New Year’s.

About David W. Shelton

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