East Knoxville residents are invited to a Town Hall East meeting on Monday, Nov. 9, at 7 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Eastminster Presbyterian Church. The gathering will provide an update on Knoxville’s 25‑year long‑range planning initiative, “What’s Next Knoxville?”, and focus on the future of Chilhowee Park.
Planning commission outlines citywide goals
Jessie Hillman, principal planner for the Knoxville‑Knox County Planning Commission, will open the program with a briefing on the “What’s Next Knoxville?” initiative. The effort, which began several years ago, is designed to set development goals for the city through 2050. Hillman will summarize the goals that emerged from community discussions held in April, May, September and October, and will point attendees to online resources where they can review the full set of materials and complete a public survey.
Chilhowee Park advisory process reviewed
The centerpiece of the evening will be a discussion of Chilhowee Park. The Chilhowee Park Advisory Group met five times between March and September, reviewing the park’s history, its role in the community, and drafting a framework to guide the next phase of design work. Three East Knoxville residents who participated in the advisory sessions—Sky Smith, Denzel Grant and Maggie Longmire—will serve on a panel to evaluate the advisory process, share their vision for the park, and outline priorities they believe should shape its renovation.
Materials and public input
Knoxville’s Department of Urban Design and Development has produced a series of illustrated, large‑format booklets that summarize the advisory group’s findings. A department representative will bring the complete set of booklets to the meeting for residents to examine up close. Attendees will also have the opportunity to ask questions, provide feedback, and learn how to stay involved as the city moves forward with design decisions.
Why the park matters to families and faith communities
Chilhowee Park has long served as a gathering place for families, churches, and community events in East Knoxville. Preserving its historic character while adding modern amenities aligns with the city’s broader commitment to strengthen neighborhoods, support traditional families, and protect spaces where faith‑based groups can meet and worship.
How to stay informed
Residents who cannot attend in person can review the planning documents and survey online through the Knoxville‑Knox County Planning Commission website. For additional information, the Town Hall East team can be reached at [email protected]. Photographs of the planners and advisory panelists are available from Town Hall East.
This meeting offers a concrete way for East Knoxville citizens to engage directly with city officials, ensuring that the future of Chilhowee Park reflects the values and needs of the community.
Original reporting: Knox TN Today — read the source article.
