FTDD Plans to Join Regional Leaders at Tri-Cities Housing Summit
- mwillison0
- Feb 18
- 2 min read
On March 3, 2026, The Sycamore Institute will host the Regional Housing Summit: Tri-Cities at the Langston Centre in Johnson City.
The First Tennessee Development District (FTDD) is excited to attend this summit and engage in meaningful dialogue that can strengthen housing outcomes across our region. As an organization committed to supporting local governments and communities in Northeast Tennessee, FTDD recognizes the importance of collaborative, data-driven conversations around housing supply, affordability, and resilience.
The first panel, “Built or Blocked? How Local Decisions Shape Housing,” will include:
Shane Abraham, Universal Development and Construction
Emily Mitchell, Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta
Josh Suddath, University of Tennessee Center for Local Planning
Moderator: Brian Straessle, The Sycamore Institute
The second panel, “From Recovery to Rebuilding: Housing After Disaster,” will focus on housing stability in the wake of natural disasters and economic disruptions. As Northeast Tennessee continues to navigate recovery efforts and long-term resilience planning, this conversation will highlight lessons learned and strategies for rebuilding stronger communities. Panelists include:
Allen Hawk, Area Office Operations–Housing, U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development
Larry Potter, Mayor of Johnson County, Tennessee
Sherry Trent, Eastern Eight Community Development Corporation
Moderator: Katie Moore, Tennessee Housing Development Agency
For FTDD, participation in this summit aligns directly with its mission to provide planning, technical assistance, and strategic support to the region’s local governments. By engaging with state and federal partners, financial institutions, developers, and community organizations, FTDD continues to strengthen its capacity to assist communities in addressing housing needs in thoughtful and sustainable ways.
The March 3 luncheon at the Langston Centre offers more than presentations — it is an opportunity to connect, collaborate, and support data-driven policy approaches that strengthen housing outcomes for families and communities across Northeast Tennessee.
Whether you are a local official, housing provider, nonprofit leader, developer, or engaged community member, your perspective is an important part of the solution.
FTDD looks forward to being part of this important regional conversation and encourages partners and stakeholders to attend as we explore how Tennessee can build — not block — pathways to stable, affordable, and resilient housing.
If you have interest in attending the summit, you may purchase tickets by visiting:
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