Getahn Ward

The Tennessean

Belmont's student body has grown to a record 8,080.

In addition to 2010 Belmont Blvd., the university bought 2012 and 2016 Belmont Blvd. and 1531 Bernard Ave.

Overall, Belmont's campus spans 84 acres.

Belmont has paid $6.5 million for four lots totaling 0.45 acres near the university's campus, including where the Myint family's International Market & Restaurant will continue to operate.

Officials said the deal allows Belmont to start planning for expansion to accommodate growth in the university's student body, which is now a record 8,080. "While we don’t have any immediate plans for that area, I’m excited to see how we can use that corner of the campus in the coming years to serve our students," said Bob Fisher, its president.

International Market & Restaurant has been a longtime fixture in the Belmont campus area. In addition to 2010 Belmont Blvd., the university's purchase from Win and Prapasri (Patti) Myint included the location of a triplex at 2012 Belmont Blvd., a quadplex at 2016 Belmont Blvd. and a single-family home at 1531 Bernard Ave.

"We are proud of Belmont University's growth and optimistic for Nashville's evolution," the Myint family said in a statement. "The time is right for our family, and we would like to extend our deepest gratitude for everyone's support over the last 40-plus years."

Overall, the university's campus spans 84 acres. Among Belmont's other acquisitions, the university paid around $1 million for 1823 12th Ave. S. three years ago after buying property at 2005 12th Ave. S. near the Hillside student apartments for $1.75 million.

Reach Getahn Ward at gward@tennessean.com or 615-726-5968 and on Twitter @getahn.