Economic Development is focused on steering the redevelopment of vacant, blighted, or challenging properties into productive use. Through several programs and tools, the City of Knoxville has robust redevelopment strategies.

Specifically covered on this page are the Façade Improvement Program, Homemakers Program, and the Historic Preservation. Additional redevelopment tools and programs can be found on the Public-Private Partnerships page. 


BLIGHTED PROPERTY REDEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

The Blighted Property Redevelopment Program (BPRP) is a revolving loan fund available for developers.
Learn more about the City's Blighted Property Redevelopment Program.


FAÇADE IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

The City of Knoxville provides support to improve the façades of commercial buildings within low-moderate income communities. By enhancing the appearance of building façades, the program serves to improve the economic viability of these areas. This program is now temporarily suspended. Please check back soon for updated information.

HISTORIC PRESERVATION FUND

Through the Historic Preservation Fund program established in 2014, the City has contributed more than $2.7 million to projects that improve historic buildings. This program is now temporarily suspended. Please check back soon for updated information.

HOMEMAKERS PROGRAM

The City of Knoxville offers vacant lots and lots with substandard structures for sale to individuals, non-profit organizations and businesses. These properties have been identified by the City for acquisition to further its mission to remove blight, redevelop neighborhoods and provide affordable housing opportunities. The purchaser will be required, in almost all cases, to construct a new dwelling on the property or rehabilitate the existing structure.
Learn more about the City's Homemakers Program.


CONSTRUCTION CAREER LADDER ROUNDTABLE 

The Construction Career Ladder Roundtable is a solutions-oriented work group of community stakeholders tasked with increasing the number of construction workers and contractors in Knoxville. Convened by the City's Housing and Neighborhood Development staff, the group is rooted in equity and committed to serving low- and moderate-income individuals. 
Learn more about the Construction Career Ladder Roundtable.