New Life for Old School

Published: 9/21/2009 9:13:00 AM

Many East Knoxville residents remember fondly their years at Eastport Elementary School, a school that faithfully served the community for many years. I am happy to report that KCDC has acquired the property, and we’ve budgeted more than $3 million to restore the facility and help it once again serve the community that holds it dear.

Many East Knoxville residents remember fondly their years at Eastport Elementary School, a school that faithfully served the community for many years.

I am happy to report that KCDC has acquired the property, and we’ve budgeted more than $3 million to restore the facility and help it once again serve the community that holds it dear.

This time around, instead of serving as a place of learning for youngsters, the site will provide housing for area seniors. We plan to provide about 60 single bedroom units for low-income senior adults.

I know a lot of older residents in the neighborhood have been hoping for better housing, and we’re glad to have this opportunity to provide it.

In a great show of support for the project, Knoxville City Council recently unanimously approved $869,000 in federal Neighborhood Stabilization Project funds for renovations.

The site is located across the street from the Walter P. Taylor neighborhood, and it’s just a first step in what we hope will be a major revitalization effort in the entire Five Points community.

Keep you eyes on the area – we expect many good things for its future.

KCDC’s mission is to improve and transform neighborhoods and communities by providing quality affordable housing, advancing development initiatives and fostering self-sufficiency. For more information, call (865) 403-1100 or visit http://www.kcdc.org.