A new Nashville Predators ice facility and community center in Bellevue became one step closer to becoming a reality in Metro Council.
Council members approved the bill on first reading that gives them permission to spend just more than $2 million on about eight acres of land for the project.
The problem is there isn't enough space for the project right now, so more land is needed. Supporters said the community center will be a much-needed upgrade over the current facility.
As hockey continues to grow in popularity here, two additional ice rinks at the hockey facility will be in high demand.
"We've got so many ice families in west Nashville, who they have children skating at midnight or 5 a.m. because there isn't enough ice time," said Council member Sheri Weiner.
Both projects will be located near the new "One Bellevue Place" development. The issue will come up for two more votes before a final approval.
If that happens, the hockey facility could open in 2018.
