July 10, 2018
The public is invited to provide input for “Recode Knoxville,” a zoning project that that will impact the changes allowed on urban property in the City of Knoxville over the next 50 years.
Community residents, property owners and neighborhood organizations are encouraged to join the Knoxville Area Urban League at the zoning enhancement meetings to learn more about “Recode Knoxville” and to discuss desired improvements.
The three meetings are scheduled for:
- Burlington: Thursday, Aug. 9, 6 p.m., Burlington Branch Library, 4614 Asheville Highway
- Vestal: Monday, Sept. 10, 6 p.m., South Knoxville Community Center, 522 Maryville Pike
- Five Points: Tuesday, Oct. 16, 8:30 a.m., CAC East Neighborhood Center, Holston Shopping Plaza, 4200 Asheville Highway
The Recode Knoxville project is a comprehensive update of the City of Knoxville zoning ordinance – and the first major review in 50 years. The project allows residents to give feedback to the city and the Metropolitan Planning Commission about the layout and functionality of their communities.
During the meetings, attendees will learn about planned zoning changes and discuss improvements that are important for daily life, such as walkability and commercial development.
Phyllis Y. Nichols, president and CEO of the Knoxville Area Urban League, noted that minority communities historically have not been engaged in shaping zoning policies that affect where they live, work and do business. The organization seeks to ensure that members of the affected urban neighborhoods provide input and have a clear understanding of how zoning changes determine how property can be used.
“We encourage everyone to come to these meetings and tell us what is important to you, because all residential areas should have an equal voice in the process,” Nichols said. “These zoning reviews are our chance to make sure that our neighborhoods are protected, while also making changes that will allow our communities to grow and take advantage of economic development in Knoxville.”
For more information on the recoding project, visit recodeknoxville.com.
About the Knoxville Area Urban League
Since 1968, the Knoxville Area Urban League has assisted disadvantaged people attain social and economic stability and self-sufficiency through direct services and advocacy. The League works to provide a skilled and diverse workforce; to increase homeownership; to support economic and small business development, and to enhance education efforts for our youth. The Knoxville Area Urban League is a United Way partner agency and affiliate of the National Urban League. The League’s work and results are evident in the lives of the over 10,000 people it impacts each year. For more information, call 865-524-5511 or visit www.thekaul.org.
