☀️ Today’s Weather
Partly cloudy. High 79°F, Low 54°F. 1% chance of rain — a fine Friday to get outside, Johnson City.
😄 Only in Johnson City
ETSU students will confidently tell you they know every back road in Johnson City — right up until they hit the one-way street they forgot about on State of Franklin.
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: Johnson City is home to the Hands On! Children’s Museum (now located in Gray, TN). But Johnson City also has a deep connection to a beloved regional rail trail that connects the city to neighboring communities. What is the name of that trail — and what historic railroad line does it follow?
Answer: The Tweetsie Trail! It follows the former narrow-gauge East Tennessee & Western North Carolina Railroad (ET&WNC), nicknamed “Tweetsie” for the sound of its whistle. The trail runs approximately 10 miles, connecting Johnson City to Elizabethton along the old railroad corridor.
🔝 Top Stories
Burlington Mills Redevelopment Gets Major Tax Incentive Boost
The Johnson City Industrial Development Board (IDB) approved a resolution authorizing the execution of a development and tax incentive agreement pertaining to the Brush Creek Development Project. Plans call for 1,049 residential units and 100,000 square feet of retail on the 34-acre Brush Creek and Burlington Mills site, transforming an area that has seen years of decline. The project is expected to deliver significant public benefits including stormwater detention, a public park, road improvements, local sales tax revenue, and a connection to the Tweetsy Trail.
Sponsored by
Frazier Plumbing
Got a leaky pipe, a water heater on its last legs, or a drain that’s given up? Frazier Plumbing has been solving plumbing problems for Tri-Cities homeowners since 1980 — family-owned, locally operated, and available 24/7 when things go wrong at the worst possible time. No runaround, no oversized crews. Just experienced local plumbers who show up and fix it right.
Wildfire Concerns Rise as Drought Grips Northeast Tennessee
Drought conditions continue to intensify across Northeast Tennessee, raising significant wildfire concerns for the region. Dry conditions have heightened the risk for residents and emergency responders heading into the warmer months. Johnson City-area residents are encouraged to stay alert and follow any burn restrictions that may be in effect.
ETSU Marks “423 Day” with Notes of Appreciation to Donors
ETSU students took part in “423 Day,” writing notes of appreciation to Buccaneer community donors as part of a university tradition. The annual giving event celebrates the Tri-Cities’ area code while recognizing the community members who support ETSU students and programs. The gesture underscores the strong bond between the university and its broader Johnson City community.
United Way Honors Volunteer Stars and Mayors for Hurricane Helene Recovery
The United Way recently held a recognition event honoring local volunteer stars and area mayors for their roles in Hurricane Helene recovery efforts. The event highlighted the extraordinary community response that helped residents across the region rebuild in the aftermath of the 2024 storm. Local leaders and volunteers were celebrated for going above and beyond during one of the region’s most challenging recovery periods.
Read more at Johnson City Press
Science Hill Seniors Make Future Teacher Commitments on Signing Day
Science Hill High School recently celebrated its Future Teacher Signing Day, recognizing seniors who have committed to pursuing careers in education. The event spotlights students choosing to enter the teaching profession, a field that communities across Tennessee are working hard to support and grow. It reflects a broader effort to invest in the next generation of educators right here in Johnson City.
Read more at Johnson City Press
JC Public Works Puts Forth $30.9 Million Budget
Johnson City’s Public Works department has presented its proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year. The budget proposal reflects the city’s ongoing infrastructure priorities and service commitments across Johnson City. Residents can follow the full budget process through the City Commission as decisions are finalized in the coming weeks.
Read more at Johnson City Press
📅 Upcoming Events
Art•Struck Festival — April 25, 2026
Saturday, April 25, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
The Pavilion at Founders Park, 105 W. Main St., Downtown Johnson City
The Art•Struck Festival brings together artists and arts organizations to celebrate and support the arts community, offering high quality artwork for sale to the public, arts demonstrations, and activities for all ages. The festival includes a market with over 50 local artists, art demonstrations and activities, a variety of live performances, and food trucks. The event is free and open to the public — no tickets required.
Rail Jam! — May 2, 2026
Saturday, May 2, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Johnson City Railroad Experience — W King St, Johnson City, TN 37604
A free outdoor concert and museum event featuring live music from Jenny and the Weazels, Bratfolk, Ryan Brenard, and John Bill & the Academics. Food truck on site. Concerts and museum admission are completely free. Made possible by the Tennessee Arts Commission.
Chamber Business After Hours at Blackthorn Club — April 30, 2026
Thursday, April 30, 2026 | 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Blackthorn Club, 1501 Ridges Club Dr., Jonesborough, TN
The Johnson City/Washington County Chamber is partnering with Blackthorn Club for a Members Only Business After Hours event, with hors d’oeuvres and beverages served.
Learn more at the Johnson City Chamber
13th Annual Garland Farm Crawfish Boil — May 30, 2026
Saturday, May 30, 2026
Garland Farm
The 13th Annual Garland Farm Crawfish Boil has been announced for May 30, with proceeds benefiting Crumley House. This beloved community fundraiser returns for another year to support a great local cause.