The weather was already steamy on the morning of June 4, 2025, when the City's Housing and Neighborhood Development Director Kevin DuBose helped welcome guests to the site of Phase 2 of the Transforming Western project.

But any weather is good weather to celebrate progress on affordable housing!

This major revitalization project spearheaded by Knoxville's Community Development Corporation is supported by a $40 million HUD Choice Neighborhoods grant, a $26.5 investment over multiple years from the City, and several significant state and local financial partners.

Phase 2 will include park space, the new Knoxville Arts Center, a Knoxville Police Department substation, a clinic operated by UT Medical Center, and other amenities that will transform this historic neighborhood.

Chief Brian Evans spoke about KPD's commitment to neighbors who requested during the planning process that the neighborhood be safe for all.

Phase 1, which includes 76 rental units, broke ground in August 2023 and is expected to be complete in September 2025. Check out the entire project timeline at TransformingWestern.com/Timeline.

Thanks to our HND colleagues who attended to show support for this project: Hope Ealey, Beth Bacon, Wendy Rainey, Shaina Walker, Mike Dunthorn, Bailey Walker, and Jon Colbaugh. Additional City staff members in attendance were Chad Weth, Cheryl Ball and Kara Finger.