Dolly Parton could soon have major airport named in her honor after unanimous vote
Nashville's primary airport moved forward this week with plans to rename the facility in honor of country music legend Dolly Parton, though the final decision on the new name remains months away.
The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority voted unanimously 6-0 on Friday to initiate the renaming process, according to a statement released after the meeting. Officials emphasized that the vote represents only the first step in what they described as a "multifaceted process."
"We are working closely with the appropriate parties to thoughtfully determine how Dolly Parton's name and legacy will be incorporated," the authority said in its statement. "In the coming months, we anticipate having more definitive plans to share regarding the next steps and implementation."
The move follows widespread public support that emerged after Parton's death at age 80 last month. A petition calling for the airport to be renamed "Dolly Parton International Airport" garnered over 155,000 verified signatures.
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee had announced in August that he was working with airport officials to pursue the renaming, noting that he had spoken with Parton's representatives, who were reportedly appreciative of the support and open to further discussions.
Parton maintained deep connections to Tennessee throughout her life, rising to prominence through her music career while also gaining recognition for her philanthropy and the Imagination Library literacy program.
Interestingly, Parton previously declined a formal state honor in 2021, asking Tennessee lawmakers to withdraw legislation that would have allowed a statue of her on state Capitol grounds. At that time, she released a statement saying, "I am honored and humbled by their intention, but I have asked the leaders of the state legislature to remove the bill from any and all consideration."
However, she left the door open for future recognition, adding, "I hope, though, that somewhere down the road, several years from now or perhaps after I'm gone, if you still feel I deserve it, then I'm certain I will stand proud in our great state Capitol as a grateful Tennessean."