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Most of these buildings had been vacant for decades as businesses migrated to the suburbs. Thank goodness, well meaning citizens intervened before any demolitions took place. Mayor Haslam initiated the project by securing the cooperation of Regal Cinemas, the developers and Knox Heritage. Those groups enabled the pieces of the project to come together, including the movie complex and the reuse of the block’s historic buildings.

The result was a win-win: the Art Deco S & W was restored to its original grandeur, and the former Athletic House and WROL building now house a sub shop and ice cream store. With Regal’s eight movie screens next door, the spots have become destinations for Knoxvillians once again.

Design Innovation Architects, led by Farris Eid, was responsible for the restoration plans.