𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 Friday, Tri-Cities!

The weekend is almost here, and the Tri-Cities are rolling into mid-June with plenty to keep on your radar — from travel updates and local development news to live music, outdoor picks, farmers markets, and community resources.

In today’s edition, we’re catching up on what’s changing across Johnson City, Kingsport, Bristol, Jonesborough, and the wider Appalachian Highlands. You’ll find practical updates for travelers and residents, a few easy ways to enjoy the weekend, and local stories that help explain how the region is growing and moving.

Thanks for starting your day with us — let’s jump in.

What Kingsport park is home to a lake, planetarium, wildlife habitats, and more than 40 miles of trails?

Tri-Cities Airport Runway Reopens After Sinkhole Repairs

Tri-Cities Airport says Runway 5/23 is back in service after crews completed repairs tied to a sinkhole discovered beneath the runway surface earlier this week.

The temporary closure had been a travel story to watch for regional passengers, with airport crews working through repairs, concrete curing, and final inspections before reopening the runway.

For travelers, the reopening is welcome news, but passengers should still check directly with their airline before heading to the airport. Flight schedules can take time to normalize after runway-related disruptions, and airline apps or alerts remain the best source for day-of-travel updates.

The airport’s reopening of Runway 5/23 helps restore normal operations at one of the region’s key travel hubs, serving passengers across Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, and the wider Appalachian Highlands.

Tri-Cities Housing Market Remains Competitive

The Tri-Cities housing market remains active, with demand staying strong across the region even as more homes become available for buyers.

Recent market reporting from the Northeast Tennessee Association of Realtors points to a familiar pattern: inventory has improved, giving buyers more options than they had during the tightest parts of the market, but conditions remain competitive. Homes are still moving quickly in many price ranges, and affordability continues to be a challenge for first-time buyers, families, retirees, and workers looking to stay close to jobs and schools.

For residents, the housing story matters beyond real estate listings. A tight market affects renters, homeowners, local employers, seniors considering downsizing, and newcomers trying to move into Johnson City, Kingsport, Bristol, and surrounding communities. When available homes remain limited or prices stay elevated, it can influence everything from household budgets to workforce recruitment.

The market also connects to broader local decisions. As cities and counties consider zoning, infrastructure, roads, utilities, and development plans, those choices can shape how much housing is built and where future growth happens. Communities across the Tri-Cities are balancing demand for new housing with concerns about traffic, neighborhood character, land use, and public services.

For buyers, the current market means preparation still matters. Getting financing lined up, watching new listings closely, and being realistic about budget and location can make a difference. Sellers may still benefit from steady demand, but pricing and condition remain important as buyers compare more options.

As summer continues, the housing market will remain one of the region’s key local economy stories. Residents should keep an eye on inventory, mortgage rates, and local development decisions, because all three will help shape affordability and availability across the Tri-Cities in the months ahead.

Regas Bros Seasoning

Johnson City Data Center Regulations Move Forward

Johnson City’s proposed data center rules are moving forward after the Planning Commission approved new regulations, but the issue remains one to watch as residents continue raising questions about neighborhood impacts and enforcement.

The proposed rules are intended to guide where data centers may be allowed and what standards developers would need to meet. Data centers are large facilities that house computer servers and related equipment used to store and process digital information. While they can bring investment and technology-related development, they can also raise concerns about electricity demand, water use, noise, building size, traffic, and proximity to nearby homes.

The Planning Commission’s approval does not end the discussion. Public concerns remain around whether the rules include enough setbacks from neighborhoods, how standards would be enforced, and whether the city has enough safeguards in place before future projects are proposed.

For residents, this is best viewed as a civic-watch item rather than a reason for alarm. The discussion is about setting expectations before data center development becomes a larger local issue. Clear zoning rules can help the city balance potential economic benefits with practical protections for surrounding areas.

Anyone interested in land use, utilities, neighborhood planning, or future development should follow the next steps as the proposal moves through the city process. The coming decisions will help shape how Johnson City handles data center projects and how those facilities may fit into the community over time.

Unicoi Names New Police Chief

The Town of Unicoi has named Cecil Hobson as its new police chief. Hobson was sworn in by Mayor Kevin McInturff earlier this week after being selected for the role. The leadership change is a local public safety update for Unicoi residents and a useful community note for readers following municipal changes across the Appalachian Highlands.

Knob Creek Vineyards Tasting Room Offers a New Local Outing in Johnson City

A new tasting room from Knob Creek Vineyards is shaping up as a promising local lifestyle stop in Johnson City, pairing local wine with a setting that also highlights regional history and small-town character.

The new space appears to offer more than a standard tasting room experience. Early details point to a destination-style visit that may include local pours alongside historic features such as a museum, log cabin, tobacco farm, weaver’s cottage, and historic dairy cellar. That mix gives the location appeal for weekend explorers, date-night planners, visitors, and residents looking for something different close to home.

For Johnson City, the tasting room adds another local option to the area’s growing food, drink, and experience-based small business scene. Places like this often become casual gathering spots, giving residents a chance to support a local business while also enjoying a setting tied to the region’s heritage.

Before making plans, visitors should confirm the latest details directly with Knob Creek Vineyards, including the tasting room’s address, hours, tour availability, reservation requirements, and any special event schedule. New openings sometimes adjust hours or offerings as they settle into regular operations.

For now, Knob Creek Vineyards’ Johnson City tasting room is worth keeping on the local radar as a fresh weekend idea and a potential new stop for anyone interested in local wine, history, and a relaxed regional outing.

What’s Happening Soon Around the Tri-Cities

The Tri-Cities calendar is packed with live music, community arts, baseball, and a major music-focused save-the-date over the next several days.

Friday, June 12 — Bristol: Border Bash returns downtown
Believe in Bristol’s 2026 Border Bash series begins Friday, June 12, from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Downtown Center on State Street. The first lineup features The Wilson Springs Hotel with Appalachian Roulette, making it a strong weekend kickoff for live music fans and downtown visitors.

Friday, June 12 — Kingsport: Twilight Alive with The Trey Hensley Band
Kingsport also has live music on the calendar Friday night with Twilight Alive featuring The Trey Hensley Band, scheduled from 7 to 10 p.m. This gives residents another easy outdoor entertainment option close to home.

Sunday, June 14 — Johnson City: Tri-Star Wind Ensemble Concert
For a quieter arts pick, the Tri-Star Wind Ensemble Concert is listed in Johnson City on Sunday, June 14, from 2 to 4 p.m. It is a good low-key community option for readers looking for an afternoon music event.

Sunday, June 14 — Johnson City: Doughboys vs. Elizabethton River Riders
Also on June 14, the Johnson City Doughboys take on the Elizabethton River Riders, adding a local sports and family-friendly option to the weekend calendar.

Friday, June 20 — Gray: Tri-Cities Guitar Expo
Looking ahead, the 2nd Annual Tri-Cities Guitar Expo is scheduled for Friday, June 20, from 4 to 11 p.m. at the Appalachian Fairgrounds in Gray. The event is a strong save-the-date for musicians, collectors, makers, and anyone who enjoys the region’s music scene.

From downtown concerts to local baseball and specialty music events, the next week offers several easy ways to get out and enjoy the Tri-Cities close to home.

Tri-Cities Farmers Markets Offer Fresh Summer Stops

Farmers market season is underway across the Tri-Cities, giving residents easy ways to shop local, pick up fresh produce, and support regional growers, bakers, makers, and small food businesses.

In Johnson City, the Johnson City Farmers Market is open Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 105 W. Main Street. The 2026 season runs from May 2 through Oct. 31, making it a steady downtown stop for weekend shoppers looking for produce, baked goods, flowers, crafts, and other local finds.

In Kingsport, the Kingsport Farmers Market is open Saturdays from April 25 through Nov. 28 and Wednesdays from May through September, with market hours listed as 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. The market is located at 308 Clinchfield Street and features fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, local meats, artisan crafts, fresh flowers, and more.

Kingsport also has a timely reason to visit this month: Saturdays with the Chef is taking place every Saturday in June beginning at 9 a.m. The free cooking demonstration series gives shoppers ideas for using seasonal produce and market ingredients at home.

In Bristol, the State Street Farmers Market is open Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon from May through October at 810 State Street. Wednesday markets are scheduled from 2 to 6 p.m. from July through September. The market also notes that many vendors accept cards, while shoppers using cash are encouraged to bring small bills; SNAP/EBT shoppers can scan cards for wooden market tokens to use with participating vendors.

For families, weekend explorers, and anyone trying to eat more locally, the markets offer more than groceries. They are a simple way to get outside, meet local vendors, find seasonal ingredients, and make a regular summer routine out of supporting small farms and food makers across the region. Before heading out, shoppers should check each market’s social pages for weather updates, vendor lists, special events, and any schedule changes.

New Kingsport Hotel Project Breaks Ground Downtown

A new hotel project is moving forward in downtown Kingsport, adding another development item to watch as the city continues investing in hospitality, tourism, and adaptive reuse.

Kingsport business leaders and local stakeholders recently gathered for a groundbreaking tied to the redevelopment of the historic Kingsport Hosiery Mills property. Earlier reporting from WCYB said the project involves a $10 million redevelopment of the former industrial site by Pennsylvania developer Tim Butters and Hilton Head Hospitality Management. Plans call for a 60-room boutique hotel with event space and a full-service restaurant.

The City of Kingsport’s 2026 Progress Edition describes the project as an adaptive reuse effort at the historic Dobyns-Taylor Warehouse downtown property, formerly known as Kingsport Hosiery Mill, which began operations in 1917. The city said the project will transform a long-vacant industrial site into a mixed-use hospitality destination with hotel rooms, restaurant space, flexible event space, and parking for guests and the public.

The hotel is expected to open in spring 2027, according to the city’s project summary and earlier WCYB reporting.

For downtown Kingsport, the project is notable because it brings new life to a historic property while adding lodging options for visitors, events, business travelers, and people coming into town for regional attractions. It also fits into broader downtown redevelopment efforts aimed at reusing older buildings, supporting local restaurants, and creating more reasons for people to spend time in the city center.

As construction moves ahead, residents can expect the project to remain a visible downtown change over the next year. Once complete, the hotel could become a new gathering point for visitors and locals while preserving part of Kingsport’s industrial history in a new form.

Johnson City Downtown Parking Plan Hits a Speed Bump

A proposed downtown Johnson City parking change is still moving through the city review process after hitting a delay before final approval.

The plan would convert two traffic lanes on West State of Franklin Road into additional parking. The idea is aimed at adding more spaces near downtown businesses, restaurants, and activity areas, but it must still go through planning review before any changes move forward.

For downtown visitors, workers, and business owners, the proposal is worth watching because parking remains a frequent topic as more people come downtown for dining, events, shopping, and nightlife. Additional spaces could be helpful, but lane changes also raise practical questions about traffic flow, safety, pedestrian access, and how drivers move through the area.

Because the plan has not been finalized, residents should treat it as a downtown “changes to watch” item rather than a confirmed project. The proposal is expected to go before planning review, where officials can consider details such as traffic impact, design, timing, and public feedback.

As Johnson City continues growing its downtown district, parking and street design will remain important pieces of the conversation. For now, the West State of Franklin Road proposal is still under review, and residents should watch for future city updates before expecting any lane or parking changes.

Rising summer temperatures in the Tri-Cities put older adults at increased risk of heat-related illnesses, especially during extended spells of hot, humid weather.

Seniors may find it more challenging to adjust to heat due to age, medications, chronic health issues, or limited mobility, and unreliable air conditioning can make matters worse.

Simple precautions can help minimize risks.

Keep indoor environments cool: Use air conditioning when possible, regularly monitor thermostats, and close curtains at midday. If the home gets too hot, consider spending time in local cooling centers.

Staying hydrated is crucial—drink water consistently, even if not thirsty, and watch for dehydration.

Plan outdoor activities during the coolest hours, wear light clothes, and take frequent indoor breaks.

Recognize heat illness symptoms like dizziness, nausea, confusion, or fainting, and call 911 if heat stroke is suspected.

Checking in with seniors can save lives—ask about air conditioning, water, and offer assistance when needed.

These small actions help protect vulnerable neighbors during summer’s most dangerous days.

Interesting Facts

In downtown Jonesborough, storytelling isn’t just an activity—it’s at the heart of the community.

The International Storytelling Center stands as a year-round gathering place dedicated to preserving and celebrating the region’s storytelling tradition.

This campus helps position Jonesborough as a national hub for spoken-word arts, blending the town’s historic Appalachian roots with a vibrant, ongoing creative spirit.

Not only does the center keep the energy of the National Storytelling Festival alive beyond a single weekend, but it also provides storytellers, visitors, and locals with a dedicated space to experience, learn, and participate in the craft.

For Tri-Cities residents, the center showcases that Appalachian culture shines just as brightly through shared stories as it does through music or mountain views.

Here, stories truly have a home—a local landmark where the voices of East Tennessee continue to inspire and connect the community.

Catch Sunrise on the White Oak Flats Trail

Early risers have a chance to start the weekend with a quiet mountain view during the Sunrise White Oak Flats Hike on Saturday, June 13.

The guided hike is scheduled from 4:45 to 7:45 a.m. and follows a moderate 3-mile round-trip route to one of the park’s scenic overlooks. It is a strong pick for residents who enjoy peaceful trails, cooler morning air, and the reward of watching the day begin from a high point.

Because the hike starts before sunrise, participants should plan ahead. Wear sturdy shoes, bring water, dress in layers, and consider carrying a flashlight or headlamp for the early portion of the walk. Weather can also feel cooler before dawn, especially at higher elevations, so a light jacket may be helpful.

The early start may not be for everyone, but that is part of the appeal. A sunrise hike offers a slower, quieter way to experience the outdoors before the day gets busy, making it a good option for hikers who want something a little different from a standard weekend trail walk.

Anyone interested should check the official event listing for meeting location, registration details, and any weather-related updates before heading out. For those willing to set the alarm early, the White Oak Flats hike could be a memorable way to welcome the weekend in the Appalachian Highlands.

Dragonflies and Damselflies at Steele Creek Park

Bristol’s Steele Creek Park has a seasonal nature outing on the calendar with a Dragonflies and Damselflies Hike scheduled for Friday, June 12 at 4 p.m.

The program is a good fit for families, casual walkers, and anyone who enjoys learning more about the small wildlife found around the park’s trails and water areas. Dragonflies and damselflies are especially active in warm weather, making early summer a great time to spot them near ponds, creeks, and wetlands.

For residents looking for a low-key outdoor activity, this hike offers a simple way to explore Steele Creek Park with a little extra purpose. Instead of just walking the trail, participants can learn what to watch for, how these insects move, and why they are an important part of the park’s ecosystem.

Visitors should dress for the weather, wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring water. Because outdoor programs can change due to weather or trail conditions, anyone planning to attend should check the Friends of Steele Creek Nature Center & Park calendar for meeting details and updates before heading out.

For nature lovers, families, and curious kids, the Dragonflies and Damselflies Hike is a timely summer outing that adds a little discovery to an afternoon at one of Bristol’s best-loved parks.

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Bays Mountain Park