Memphis, August 21, 2025

News Summary

In response to recent power outages affecting over 14,000 customers, Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW) is evaluating a former Smith & Nephew property on Goodlett Farms Parkway in Cordova for a new control room. This initiative aims to enhance infrastructure and restore power more efficiently after severe weather disruptions. MLGW’s CEO emphasizes the necessity of improving operational capabilities for future reliability. Crews are currently working on restoration efforts, while the city remains diligent in addressing ongoing challenges.

Memphis Evaluates Former Smith & Nephew Property for New Control Room amid Ongoing Power Outages

Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW) is considering a former Smith & Nephew property located at 7135 Goodlett Farms Parkway in Cordova as a potential site for a new control room. This decision comes in the wake of significant power outages affecting over 14,000 customers following severe weather in the area.

The widespread outages, primarily concentrated in Midtown/Downtown Memphis and Cordova, were attributed to 40 mph winds and intense lightning strikes. Restoration crews are actively working to restore power as quickly as possible, but customers have been advised that some outages may persist into Saturday.

MLGW CEO Doug McGowen noted the urgent need for a new control room, underscoring the importance of enhancing the utility’s infrastructure. The site was previously considered for relocating MLGW’s headquarters, but the organization chose not to proceed with that plan at the time.

Current Power Outage Situation

As of the latest updates, MLGW is facing ongoing power restoration challenges due to the aftermath of strong storms that affected the region on a Friday afternoon. Crews are working around the clock to address the outages, and the utility has indicated that additional support will be available to expedite these restoration efforts.

MLGW has requested customers to remain patient as the process of restoring power may take additional time, given the extent of the damages caused by the recent weather conditions. To assist customers, MLGW has made a live power outage map available for those who wish to monitor the status of their service.

Background Information on Smith & Nephew Property

The property located at 7135 Goodlett Farms Parkway has been under consideration by MLGW since it previously examined options for moving its headquarters. While that initiative was ultimately not pursued, the current evaluation for a new control room reflects ongoing efforts to improve the utility’s ability to manage power distribution and respond effectively to outages.

In addition to enhancing operational capacity, the establishment of a new control room in this location could better position MLGW to handle future weather events and outages, ultimately benefiting the Memphis community. This strategic approach aligns with MLGW’s goal to provide reliable services to its customers while minimizing disruptions caused by unforeseen circumstances.

Conclusion

The evaluation of the former Smith & Nephew property represents an important step for MLGW in addressing current and future operational needs. As crews work diligently to restore power following recent outages, the efforts being made to establish a new control room underscore the commitment to providing consistent utility services to the residents of Memphis.

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Additional Resources

• The Daily Memphian: MLGW Eyes Smith & Nephew Building for New Control Room
• Wikipedia: Power Outage
• Action News 5: Restoration Efforts for MLGW Customers
• Google Search: Memphis Light, Gas and Water
• Memphis Business Journal: MLGW Power Restoration Updates
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Lightning

Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER

The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.