The first of two winners to be recognized in the Residential category is Mechanicsville Commons, which is being created by Knoxville's Community Development Corporation. In 1997, the Corporation was awarded a federal grant to revitalize Mechanicsville and redevelop the public housing site. A key objective has been the creation of a place that embraces the values and features of long lasting, well-designed neighborhoods. To do so, the corporation worked with school officials to keep Maynard School open and with members of Mount Moriah and Eternal Life Harvest Churches to build anew along Western Avenue. The planning and design team, which included Urban Design Associates, Martella Associates, and Barge Waggoner Sumner and Cannon, created its architectural and landscape character. Sidewalks were provided in front of every house, street trees were planted, pedestrian level lighting was installed, and homes were designed in the styles that are found in nearby historic neighborhoods. Open spaces were also created, including a neighborhood park named in honor of the late Councilman, Danny Mayfield.

The new neighborhood, which includes affordable and market rate housing, blends well with the adjacent historic Mechanicsville. With office and commercial improvements that are underway, Mechanicsville Commons promises to provide renewed vitality to one of our oldest neighborhoods.

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