Exciting Developments in Downtown Knoxville
Hey there, Knoxville! It’s a bustling time for our downtown area, with major projects coming together that are sure to reshape the landscape. Just yesterday, I had the opportunity to check in on two significant developments: the Axle Project and the eagerly anticipated Covenant Health Park Stadium. Both are looking fantastic and it’s clear that they are advancing rapidly.
A Look at the Axle Project
Let’s start with the Axle Project. Many of you might already be familiar with it, but for those who aren’t, here’s the scoop! This ambitious project is set to feature a whopping 85,000 square feet of office space, catering to a company that’s growing faster than expected. Just to put things in perspective, as of April, the company had over 600 employees when they originally projected just 285 at that time. Looks like they’re expanding, and they definitely need the room!
Managed by Lawler Woods and designed by Design Innovation Architects, with Merit Construction hard at work, this project is really starting to take shape. If you take a walk by now, you’ll notice that parts of the building are already being enclosed, meaning winter work can continue, no matter what the weather might throw our way. The structure is sporting a wrap of bright purple insulation, while the back is seeing some beautiful new bricks going up. Expect to see more brickwork popping up along Central Street any day now!
Mark your calendars! This impressive office complex is projected to be completed by 2025. We can’t wait to see how it will transform the area and hopefully bring even more jobs to our community.
Covenant Health Park Stadium Progress
Now, let’s talk about the Covenant Health Park Stadium. Wow, a lot has happened since I last checked in on this project! The main structure looks solid and you can really see how everything fits together now. What caught my eye during my visit were three big highlights. First off, the water tower – it’s back! And no, it no longer shouts out ads for UT; it’s bright and shiny, just waiting for its new paint job. I’m not sure what the final design will be, but I’m definitely intrigued!
Next, the scoreboard structure is up! That’s a key feature for any stadium and it’s definitely coming together. Lastly, the Beauford Delaney building, which is the tallest building to grace Knoxville since the seventies, is well on its way to becoming a breathtaking addition to our skyline. This nine-story mixed-use building is designed collaboratively by DIA and BarberMcMurry and will house retail and restaurant spaces, along with event space and luxury condos. How cool is that?
The third floor will feature 47 luxury condominiums with fabulous views—either toward home plate or over the plaza. And for the residents, a private viewing deck will be available on the fourth floor—what a perk!
It’s breathtaking to see how quickly the building’s construction has progressed. When I took photos back in late August, the fourth floor was just underway, but now it’s all the way up to nine! Their target of completing the mixed-use building by April is looking more and more like a reality with each passing day.
Looking Forward to What’s Next
As these projects only take shape, it’s heartening to think about the contributions they will bring—not just in terms of new spaces and jobs, but also in enhancing our community. Knoxville is in the midst of revitalization that promises to bring exciting dining, retail, and living spaces right to our doorstep.
I can’t wait to see how these projects unfold and transform our downtown scene. Keep your eyes peeled for updates and be sure to take a stroll around the area to witness all the changes firsthand!
