Tennessee governor says he backs airport name change to honor Dolly Parton

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has expressed support for renaming Nashville International Airport to honor legendary country singer Dolly Parton. The proposal aims to create a lasting tribute to Parton's legacy and the inspiration she provided. Lee stated he spoke with Parton and her team, who were receptive to the idea. The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority is scheduled to discuss the proposal, with its president highlighting Parton's values of dignity and kindness. The initiative has gained significant public traction, including a petition with over 150,000 signatures. Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell also indicated that this renaming is part of broader city tributes to Parton.

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has proposed renaming Nashville International Airport in honor of country music icon Dolly Parton. The proposal, announced Friday, comes days after Parton's death at age 80. Governor Lee stated the renaming would be a fitting tribute to the Tennessee native, and he has discussed the idea with Parton's representatives. The Metro Nashville Airport Authority will consider the proposal, which may require revisiting its policy that generally requires individuals to be deceased for at least two years before an airport property can be named after them. The authority is scheduled to discuss the governor's proposal and the naming policy at its September 17th meeting.