News Summary
Knoxville prepares to say goodbye to the century-old Pryor Brown Garage, which is set for demolition on January 6. Once a thriving parking facility, its deterioration has sparked community concern over future developments. The garage’s history dates back to the 1920s, but after ceasing operations in 2013, the structure has seen neglect. With preliminary demolition work beginning, residents ponder the future of the site and what it means for downtown Knoxville.
Knoxville to Bid Farewell to Historic Pryor Brown Garage
The curtains are about to close on one of downtown Knoxville’s oldest structures. The century-old Pryor Brown Garage is set to be demolished starting January 6 after years of standing vacant and falling into disrepair. With its roof missing and a long history of neglect, it’s no surprise that many locals have wondered when this day would come.
A Look Back in Time
Constructed in the 1920s, the Pryor Brown Garage was once the talk of the town. Originally adapted from a livery stable, it became one of the oldest parking garages in the United States. Over the decades, it served many vehicles, making it a staple in the community. But its glory days have long faded, with the garage ceasing operations as a parking facility back in 2013.
Located at a prominent spot on the city block bordered by Gay Street, Cumberland Avenue, Market Street, and Church Avenue, the garage has become increasingly recognized as a major eyesore. The current ownership, led by Mike Conley, had initially attempted to rally support for preservation, arguing its historic significance warranted funding. Unfortunately, plans for redevelopment into condos and retail space fizzled out after being announced in 2016. Talks of demolition followed, as the structure continued to deteriorate.
Groundbreaking Demolition Plans
Preparatory work for demolition will kick off on January 6, leading to a full teardown of the garage. A permit has been granted to crews from E. Luke Greene Co., who will be the ones to finally take down this aging giant. While this work takes place, Market Street will see a temporary closure between Cumberland Avenue and Church Avenue. The south-side lane on Church Avenue will also experience closures later in the process.
Although the sidewalks on the east side of Market Street and the south side of Church Avenue will be unavailable during demolition, the opposite sidewalks will remain open for pedestrians. So, if you’re in the area, you can still stroll along and take in the changing landscape of downtown Knoxville.
Concerns and Community Sentiments
The decision to demolish this historic landmark has not been without controversy. Many community members feel a mix of nostalgia for the past and concern for the future. As the garage comes down, there are worries not just about the environmental impact of demolishing the building— such as debris and resource depletion— but also about what will take its place. Will it end up as an empty lot, or will there be plans for new developments that breathe life back into this part of town?
Current regulations from the City Council prohibit the newly exposed land from being used as a surface parking lot, indicating a desire for something more beneficial for the community. Discussions are ongoing about potential new projects that could replace the garage and reinvigorate the area.
What Lies Ahead
As the final chapter of the Pryor Brown Garage unfolds, the thoughts of many turned towards the future. Will the city reclaim this space for new, vibrant developments? Or will the demolition leave behind a void in Knoxville’s urban landscape? Regardless, the demolition marks the end of an era, closing the book on a structure that has seen the city evolve over the last hundred years.
So, as the noise of bulldozers begins to fill the air come January 6, residents can expect a shift in their beloved city—one that may pave the way for exciting changes, even as they bid adieu to the historic Pryor Brown Garage.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Transformations Begin in Downtown Knoxville
Additional Resources
- Knox News
- Inside of Knoxville
- Knox TN Today
- WATE News
- WBIR News
- Wikipedia: Pryor Brown Garage
- Google Search: Pryor Brown Garage
- Google Scholar: Pryor Brown Garage
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Pryor Brown Garage
- Google News: Pryor Brown Garage
