KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Knoxville City Council is scheduled to vote Tuesday on whether to authorize the Knoxville Community Development Corporation to begin developing a North Waterfront Redevelopment Plan, a long-term framework aimed at transforming a stretch of riverfront property along Neyland Drive.
The proposed redevelopment area includes underutilized land running from Maplehurst toward Third Creek along the Tennessee River corridor between downtown Knoxville and the University of Tennessee campus.
Focus on Infrastructure and Public Access
KCDC officials emphasize that the proposal is not tied to a specific building project. Instead, the plan would establish a vision for future growth while creating potential funding mechanisms for infrastructure improvements tied to development in the area.
Projects that could be addressed through the redevelopment framework include:
- Stormwater system upgrades
- Utility improvements and underground utility lines
- Expanded greenways and trails
- Additional open spaces
- Better pedestrian and bicycle access
- Improved public access to the Tennessee River
KCDC representatives say the goal is to ensure public infrastructure keeps pace with major developments planned nearby.
“Stormwater improvements, undergrounding of utilities, but also improvements to greenways, improvements to open space, better access to the Tennessee River — those types of things that the public is really going to get a benefit from,” a KCDC representative said.
Preparing for Future Growth
The agency says the planning effort is intended to coordinate with several major projects already proposed or under development in the area.
Those include:
- The planned Neyland Entertainment District
- Future University of Tennessee development in Maplehurst
- A new pedestrian bridge landing
Officials say the redevelopment framework would help create a more connected waterfront corridor while enhancing transportation options for residents, students and visitors.
“How do we use them to create a more walkable, a more bikeable, a more aesthetically pleasing corridor that allows better access to the riverfront?” a KCDC representative said.
Residents Support Improved Connectivity
Some residents who regularly travel between downtown and UT’s campus say the project could improve daily transportation options.
Nicole Egger, who works on the university campus, said stronger connections between downtown and campus could reduce the need for vehicle travel and help address ongoing parking challenges.
“It would make it so much easier to commute to work,” Egger said. “I think it just makes everything a lot more accessible without a car. Campus has so many parking problems. To increase the number of people who can bike commute or walk commute is ideal.”
Egger also noted that Knoxville’s riverfront remains one of the city’s most underutilized assets.
“I think Knoxville, especially along the river, I think it’s just underutilized,” she said. “It’s such a beautiful space that Knoxville should take more advantage of for its residents.”
Next Steps
If City Council approves the measure, KCDC will begin drafting the redevelopment plan, including preliminary maps and concept visuals.
The agency expects to seek public feedback throughout the process, including a required public hearing later this summer. Property owners within the proposed redevelopment district would also be notified and given opportunities to participate.
KCDC officials say implementation would occur in phases and could take 10 years or more to fully realize.
