Starting early next week, the heart of Knoxville will undergo significant changes as construction crews prepare to dismantle a historic parking structure. The Pryor Brown Garage, an aging four-story building that has stood vacant for years, will be demolished by E. Luke Greene Company Inc. This project will impact several downtown streets and sidewalks, with closures planned to ensure public safety during the demolition process. Market Street will experience temporary closures between Cumberland Avenue and Church Avenue, along with specific sidewalk restrictions. Additional lane closures are expected in the coming weeks.

Preparation for Demolition: Temporary Road and Sidewalk Adjustments

To facilitate the upcoming demolition, various traffic adjustments will take place in the downtown area. Starting on Monday, January 6th, motorists and pedestrians should anticipate changes to their usual routes. The city has announced plans to close sections of Market Street and implement sidewalk closures on both Market and Church Avenues. These measures aim to provide a safe environment for workers while minimizing disruptions to the community.

The east side sidewalk on Market Street and the south side sidewalk on Church Avenue will be temporarily closed. However, alternative pedestrian pathways will remain accessible on opposite sides of these streets. The closure of Market Street between Cumberland Avenue and Church Avenue is designed to allow construction teams to prepare the site safely. Residents and visitors are advised to plan alternative routes or expect delays during this period.

Anticipated Impact and Future Developments

As the demolition progresses, further adjustments to traffic patterns are expected. Around mid-January, additional closures will affect the eastbound lane and sidewalk on Church Avenue. City officials have outlined a phased approach to minimize long-term disruption. While these changes may cause short-term inconveniences, they represent a crucial step toward revitalizing downtown Knoxville's infrastructure.

The Pryor Brown Garage, which has been vacant and deteriorating for several years, poses structural concerns due to its missing roof and overall disrepair. Removing this outdated facility will pave the way for new development opportunities in the area. Local authorities encourage residents and businesses to stay informed about ongoing updates and follow recommended detours to ensure smooth navigation through the construction zone.