FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 29, 2008

KCDC AND COMMUNITY CELEBRATE LONSDALE HOMES RENOVATION
KCDC transforms Lonsdale Homes into ‘Premier Property’ neighborhood

Knoxville’s Community Development Corporation’s (KCDC) $19.9 million investment is turning into something priceless in Lonsdale – a remarkable transformation of a once “forgotten neighborhood” into a proud and united community.

Alvin Nance, executive director and CEO of Knoxville’s Community Development Corporation (KCDC), welcomes guests to the celebration of Lonsdale Homes’ completed renovation on Tuesday, July 29.
Mayor Bill Haslam discusses the importance of community with guests gathered to celebrate the completed renovation of KCDC’s Lonsdale Homes on Tuesday, July 29.
Lonsdale Homes resident Patricia Boyd and her daughters Jamiah and Coriauna listen to remarks from Alvin Nance, KCDC executive director and CEO, at the Lonsdale Homes completed renovation celebration on Tuesday, July 29.
Lonsdale Homes residents Peggy Davis and Betty Easley enjoy their ice cream at the Lonsdale Homes completed renovation celebration on Tuesday, July 29.

On Tuesday, July 29, Mayor Bill Haslam, the board of Knoxville’s Community Development Corporation (KCDC), Merit Construction, public officials, community leaders and residents gathered to celebrate the completed renovation of Lonsdale Homes. Guests enjoyed ice cream, and the celebration included tours of renovated units.

Lonsdale Homes’ outdated, 1950s row-style apartment houses have been transformed into unique, modernized apartments. With individualized facades and covered front porches, the new apartments are reminiscent of Knoxville’s 1930s and ‘40s neighborhoods.

“We consider the restoration of historic Lonsdale a major milestone in revitalizing the Western Avenue community,” said Alvin Nance, KCDC executive director and CEO. “Lonsdale Homes is now anchored by a KCDC Premier Property, offering great homes with affordable rent to working families, seniors, disabled adults and full-time students.”

Merit Construction is the general contractor for the project and handled the renovation of existing buildings, new construction and some demolition.

“Merit is proud to be helping on this important transformational project for the Lonsdale community,” said Bruce Bosse, president of Merit Construction. “We are pleased to have worked with KCDC to achieve such positive results for them and for the people who will live in this community."

The entire Lonsdale community has been transformed alongside this renovation project. Vandalism has decreased and community pride has skyrocketed. Residents have a found a new sense of pride in their neighborhood. Attendance at Lonsdale Community Advisory Committee meetings has increased significantly, and residents are continuing to actively participate in the revitalization of their community.

At the August 2007 grand opening of the newly renovated Lonsdale Park, Mayor Haslam praised the neighborhood, saying “Lonsdale is starting to change, and I see only positive things coming.”

It seems his prediction was right.

Stronger, safer and more energized, Lonsdale is now a desirable place to live. Current residents are happy, and potential residents are eager.

“I’m very happy living here”, commented resident Betty Easley. “My apartment is roomy, and I love my kitchen. My young grandson is enjoying his new home, especially the porch.”

Residents are pleased with the 260 new housing units, ranging from one-bedroom to four bedroom apartments. The new style of the units and the new attitude of the neighborhood are quickly attracting people to Lonsdale.

“I like that each apartment is a little different,” remarked Melody Winton, another Lonsdale resident. “We have a lot more space in my bedroom than our previous apartment. I even have a walk-in closet. The neighbors are nice and the staff in the office has been very helpful.”

KCDC is currently taking applications for Lonsdale apartments. The applications are free and are being accepted at the 2020 Minnesota Ave. office on weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. When all information is received and an application is approved, the applicant’s name will be placed on a waiting list. Inquiries can be made by calling 403-1350.

KCDC is the housing authority and redevelopment agency for Knoxville. Since 1936, KCDC has been dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for the citizens of Knoxville. For more information, visit www.kcdc.org.

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