East Memphis residents will soon see a major transformation at the corner of Poplar Avenue and Mendenhall Road. An application has been filed with the city to demolish the four‑story, 40,000‑square‑foot First Horizon building, which was constructed in 1962. The demolition request, submitted by Gill Properties and Horn Ventures, is a key step in a $25 million mixed‑use development that aims to revitalize the area.
Project details and timeline
The developers, Brown Gill of Gill Properties and Darrell Horn of Horn Ventures, plan to replace the aging structure with a new two‑story building of roughly 50,000 square feet. The design calls for an even split of space: about 25,000 square feet for offices and another 25,000 square feet for retail. In addition, the project will feature a 6,300‑square‑foot, 170‑seat restaurant named “The Tradition,” intended to become a gathering spot for families and community members.
The demolition itself is estimated to cost $206,500. While the application has been recorded, it still requires city approval before a demolition date can be set. Once approved, the developers expect construction to begin later this year, with the completed complex slated to open to the public in late 2027.
Context and previous work
This project is not the first phase of redevelopment at the Poplar‑Mendenhall corner. Earlier in 2026, the former Houston’s restaurant on the same site was demolished to make way for new construction. That demolition cleared space for additional commercial use and set the stage for the larger mixed‑use vision now moving forward.
Local officials have expressed support for projects that bring new jobs, retail options, and dining experiences to East Memphis. The city’s planning department notes that mixed‑use developments can help stimulate economic activity, increase tax revenues, and provide residents with convenient amenities close to home.
Community impact
Community members have been invited to review the demolition application and provide feedback during the upcoming public hearing. The developers have emphasized that the new office and retail spaces will prioritize local businesses, and that “The Tradition” restaurant will feature a menu that honors regional flavors while offering a family‑friendly atmosphere.
Supporters argue that replacing the aging First Horizon building with modern facilities aligns with the city’s broader goals of revitalizing underutilized parcels and encouraging investment in East Memphis. Critics, though few, have raised typical concerns about construction traffic and the preservation of historic structures. The developers have responded that the building, while historic, no longer meets contemporary safety or accessibility standards, and that the new project will adhere to all applicable codes and regulations.
Next steps
The demolition application will be reviewed by the Memphis Planning Commission at its next meeting. If approved, the developers will secure demolition permits, schedule the teardown, and begin construction on the new mixed‑use building. Residents can stay informed by attending the public hearing or checking the city’s planning portal for updates.
Overall, the project represents a significant investment in East Memphis, promising new employment opportunities, expanded retail choices, and a fresh dining venue that aims to become a neighborhood staple.
Original reporting: Action News 5 WMC (Gray) — read the source article.
