The city of Knoxville is reenvisioning public spaces and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure for a future riverfront site.
The city is seeking a master developer through a Request for Qualifications, managed by the Knoxville Community Development Corporation (KCDC), for the redevelopment of a 15-acre former industrial site along the city’s south waterfront into a pedestrian-friendly mixed-use district, a project CEO Ben Bentley said could top $200 million.
The site sits along the Tennessee River across from the University of Tennessee and is directly tied to a planned $60 million pedestrian and bicycle bridge that will connect South Knoxville with the university and downtown.
KCDC officials said community input has emphasized creating a walkable development that strengthens connections between South Knoxville, downtown and UT while adding mixed-income housing, retail space, public gathering areas and expanded river access.
Bentley said the agency is seeking a developer with experience in urban riverfront redevelopment and the financial capacity to manage a large-scale public-private partnership.
KCDC plans to use a two-step selection process, first reviewing qualifications before inviting up to four shortlisted developers to submit formal redevelopment proposals.
The project has been part of Knoxville’s waterfront planning efforts for more than two decades. More recently, KCDC and the South Waterfront Advisory and Advocacy Group have worked to shape a community-driven vision for the site. Officials envision the area as a landmark destination that reflects South Knoxville’s character and improves public access to the river.
Developers who wish to apply for the RFQ have upcoming deadlines: Notice of Intent to Submit is due July 7. The RFQ submission is due Aug. 7, via KCDC.org. The shortlist posting is anticipated for September.
Photo by Betty Krachey from Pexels
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