KCDC and the City of Knoxville invite the community to review ideas for the former Public Safety Building site next to the Knoxville Civic Auditorium and Coliseum on Monday, Oct. 12, from 5-7 p.m. at Cal Johnson Recreation Center.
Knoxville’s Community Development Corporation (KCDC) and the City of Knoxville will host a community feedback session to continue to gather input on the future of the former Public Safety Building site next to the Knoxville Civic Auditorium and Coliseum (KCAC).
The initial event was held Sept. 12 at the Hill Avenue site with a family-friendly block party for the public to contribute ideas, initial thoughts and any potential concerns. The second feedback event to review ideas submitted at the initial session will be held on Monday, Oct. 12, at Cal Johnson Recreation Center, located at 507 S. Hall of Fame Drive, from 5-7 p.m.
The Hill Avenue redevelopment site, just east of downtown, was formerly the headquarters for the Knoxville Police Department, which operated out of the Public Safety Building for more than 55 years before moving in 2023 to a new Public Safety Complex in North Knoxville. The old building was demolished to make way for new investment, and the site is now vacant.
“We want to hear from residents about the best uses for the site and what the community wants it to become,” KCDC Executive Director and CEO Ben Bentley said. “If you attended the block party and have additional thoughts or if you are coming to a session for the first time, we want your input. Our goal is to arrive at a shared vision based on what residents, community members and businesses would like to see for this important location.”
The event will include a summary of comments and data gathered at the September block party and the presentation of additional content based on the initial feedback. Onsite parking is available.
“The Hill Avenue site is a key piece of the ongoing revitalization in East Knoxville and downtown,” said Rebekah Jane Justice, the City of Knoxville’s chief of urban design and development. “The potential for this property because of the central location, walkability and proximity to public transportation is tremendous, and we want to pursue the best possible path to benefit the city and its residents.”
Information about the redevelopment initiative is available at kcdc.org/hillavenueinput.
KCDC serves as the redevelopment agency for the City of Knoxville and has redeveloped key sites from Historic Market Square and the South Waterfront to the former St. Mary’s Hospital site that now houses the new Public Safety Complex.