tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7173863636631446972024-03-05T17:10:39.314-08:00100 Block ConstructionRick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.comBlogger142125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-76593736771259188662012-09-27T10:40:00.000-07:002012-09-27T10:40:58.867-07:00100 Block Update- September 27, 2012Please remember that the multimeters will be activated on Oct. 1, 2012 and KPD will begin enforcement on that date. The current hours of operation for the multimeters will be 8:00am to 6:00pm Monday through Friday. We have been placing <span style="background-color: white;">pamphlets</span> on vehicles informing folks of this timing for the last week or so and we also plan to send another media advisory. The new meters will accept coin, bills, or credit cards and the cost will be $1 per hour with a two hour maximum. New signs have been placed on the <span style="background-color: white;">block</span> directing parkers to the meters which are located mid block. <br />
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The new meter is really very simple to use. For now we are using the pay and display option which means you simply pay at the meter and place your receipt on the dash of your vehicle. Because of the location of the meter near the Sterchi Building, we will have to move one of the benches to a new location and plan to also move around some of the benches on the west side of the street. Several of the benches had to be relocated from the locations shown on the our original plans due to utility relocation so we have asked the 100 Block Association to help us in determine the best relocation sites. <br />
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Other items of interest in the 100 Block of S. Gay Street area include the screening of the central garbage area which was created in a parking space on the 200 Block of S. Gay Street. We are getting estimates with the idea being that we would like to go for a similar look to the screening we have created by the State Street Garage. <br />
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The City of Knoxville, in conjunction with the Public Art Committee and the Arts and Culture Alliance, is continuing to plan improvements for the area around the Treble Clef. We would love to find the means to have a very meaningful art piece placed here along with other enhancements for the area. <br />
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The Engineering Department has notified me that our paving contractor plans to repave Summit Hill beginning this weekend so expect some delays and lane closures there.<br />
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We continue to discuss the panhandling issues here and plan to organize a joint meeting very soon with all the various Downtown Associations and the Cumberland Avenue Merchants Association to plan a coordinated method for making folks aware of the various regulations and impacts and to have a unified strategy going forward. As many of you know I attend most of these meetings and hear the same issues and ideas over and over. I believe the Cumberland Avenue Merchants Association has developed the most organized strategy thus far so I would like to try to get everyone together to begin a similar implementation strategy if possible.<br />
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Lastly, many events are planned for next weekend including the Hola Festival on Saturday October 6, 2012 <br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 9pt;">(<a href="http://www.holaknoxville.org/" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #0073bb; text-decoration: none; text-transform: uppercase; text-underline: none;"><span style="color: black;">www.holaknoxville.org</span></span></b></a>)</span> which will be held on Depot Street again this year and also First Friday on October 5, 2012. I look forward to seeing all of you there.</div>
Thanks for your interest in the 100 Block of S. Gay Street and in Downtown Knoxville.Rick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-5660496894773007732012-09-14T12:27:00.003-07:002012-09-14T12:27:42.105-07:00New Multimeters on the 100 Block of S. Gay StreetI hope all is well with everyone and we thank you for your continued support and interest in the 100 Block of S. Gay Street.
It has been a long while since I have posted anything on this blog since others have taken up the mantle here. The 100 Block Association has done a good job of disseminating information both on Facebook and Twitter and also using other forms of communication.
I thought it might be good, however, to post this information concerning one item left over from the 100 Block construction and that is the installation of the new Multimeters. (See picture below)
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitBx37a0GmdyYmYPr395tv98bEW-K5jqxqmfmCa2cxOvDminhMLKbQdPNO8iHVKT78b6QUBJRopW7ZXnxfuQRzlymYWN1OMGu33bAqGmoLpCtJt4voLvyI0TccGokifC7H3-mIO3wouf7m/s1600/meters100block580.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitBx37a0GmdyYmYPr395tv98bEW-K5jqxqmfmCa2cxOvDminhMLKbQdPNO8iHVKT78b6QUBJRopW7ZXnxfuQRzlymYWN1OMGu33bAqGmoLpCtJt4voLvyI0TccGokifC7H3-mIO3wouf7m/s400/meters100block580.jpg" /></a></div>
Ideally, these would have been installed immediately at the end of construction since they were to be purchased to replace the much older meters there that had been experiencing maintenance issues for a while. These two meters are now replacing as many as 27 of the 15-year-old meters. Since we were delayed in the purchase for a variety of reasons, the technology has improved but so did the cost. When we made that decision (2008), the cost of new single meters including installation, etc.was around $1000 each so it was very cost effective to go with this newer technology. While this is new to Knoxville, many of our sister cities have been using this technology for years. It reduces street clutter and gives more options as far as pricing, payment, and messaging, and cuts down on maintenance costs.
There has been some confusion, I think, about the hours of operation and pricing. We plan to charge $1 an hour with a two hour maximum. This decision was a result of much discussion in the last few years with business and property owners, including the 100 Block Association, expressing concern with parking availability for customers on the block. The thought was that the most convenient short term parking should have a higher rate and a time limit and we have operated on that premise in our decision making. We continue to hear that same thought from others downtown as well but we have made the 100 Block our ideal street area for these types of innovations.
We have been asked about nights and weekends and that policy has been mainly in effect for the garages with certain metered spaces being subject to enforcement. For instance, at the request of the 100 Block Association we have designated two meters on the Gay Street Viaduct as 15 minute only with no free designation.
The signage on the multimeters will let motorists know when they must pay to use the meters and we will continue to monitor their enforcement especially all along Gay Street.
These parking spaces are not available for the Residential Parking permit process and were not previously signed for that purpose prior to construction. Other spaces on both the Gay Street Viaduct and in the O.P. Jenkins area parking lot are signed for that use. I would encourage downtown residents to check out that program for reduced parking rates. Also the City has the Jackson Avenue Parking Lot very close to the 100 Block which is also $1 an hour and $40 for a monthly pass. Incidentally the multimeter there is almost identical to the new ones we just installed.
We are currently working on flyers to use on the 100 Block to let folks know of the change in parking. Enforcement will begin on October 1, 2012.
Thanks for your interest in Downtown Knoxville
Rick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-7153807361976951572011-10-10T12:11:00.000-07:002011-10-10T12:16:42.746-07:00100 Block Association Annual MeetingPlease mark your calender tomorrow, October 11, for the annual meeting at the Emporium at 6:00 pm.<br />New officers will be selected and future initiatives for the Association will be discussed.<br />I will be there along with other folks from the City to update folks on the Block as to recent developments.<br />I hope to see you there.Rick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-9501839760113970452011-05-19T10:40:00.001-07:002011-05-19T11:01:44.671-07:00PicturesThanks to Southern Constructors for their work on the project and for providing me with these pictures.<br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5608484548091470610" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE1T4HiMLaEMpLh6by36whBy-HKXCT6To0P39yuB0ZCj95aO8BLFzy02vMn0uWuQ18pGZqBtgW5HSdmqdRP7w6o3uEXx4Prd-rg9HYEWA1456hBJSosQCSI1Sh2y7n4CCpSpDCN6gCKqaP/s400/GayStreet042811_005.jpg" /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq6zrbqZOK0Ei6mIEClV_igf2pkviq1trRe-gZas3ugdvDRPQWPWbXwDim9gT9EvQETihlKtIizkopje_v6MorGbijbyiuBZSya7xSNqpg9fmD2Gj4DdFa953LAhTnVl0YZThodrSZPXo4/s1600/GayStreet042811_012.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5608484371429219906" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq6zrbqZOK0Ei6mIEClV_igf2pkviq1trRe-gZas3ugdvDRPQWPWbXwDim9gT9EvQETihlKtIizkopje_v6MorGbijbyiuBZSya7xSNqpg9fmD2Gj4DdFa953LAhTnVl0YZThodrSZPXo4/s400/GayStreet042811_012.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3cOZdFZvAzQSzMxXqovMkmFQM9ogfYhI6joaoJ5mCR_BHetsczj2LWDpYaPiiuO8a3cEVoTSNB5_VyccNXG18-bNPPE_VfgMNbN42u7HVgrie6og7A3RZPl-2xMYgY6oR_zRc8IUNDHvL/s1600/GayStreet042811_010.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5608484179044345202" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3cOZdFZvAzQSzMxXqovMkmFQM9ogfYhI6joaoJ5mCR_BHetsczj2LWDpYaPiiuO8a3cEVoTSNB5_VyccNXG18-bNPPE_VfgMNbN42u7HVgrie6og7A3RZPl-2xMYgY6oR_zRc8IUNDHvL/s400/GayStreet042811_010.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcetiAezqO6E66MZb3CYbODCIv_GoDPXXGOoANakEtZEmDXIcJmaHEzri0EycBYJ7BdaCjwMxhYJpl0UC5OXlCvZkLUesKddLA45yCt7wsu9KZy5mpucMmSUDknkDj9tO4OFE14ROGsCyF/s1600/GayStreet042811_008.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5608483987342221250" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcetiAezqO6E66MZb3CYbODCIv_GoDPXXGOoANakEtZEmDXIcJmaHEzri0EycBYJ7BdaCjwMxhYJpl0UC5OXlCvZkLUesKddLA45yCt7wsu9KZy5mpucMmSUDknkDj9tO4OFE14ROGsCyF/s400/GayStreet042811_008.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpVTSFw2S7xkMGJUiDwPM6ehkE55f3eWVESkcdx2td8GDZmPcRtw6bFG0vQCcVb0kQ-LH_h6zLb5YS-Crynv0rqB5cTRfbDSrm84AFhU73UlcG3ykbiNMwfQBeLQ3jtDuhillp17Xy2bBE/s1600/GayStreet042811_003.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5608483838658605970" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpVTSFw2S7xkMGJUiDwPM6ehkE55f3eWVESkcdx2td8GDZmPcRtw6bFG0vQCcVb0kQ-LH_h6zLb5YS-Crynv0rqB5cTRfbDSrm84AFhU73UlcG3ykbiNMwfQBeLQ3jtDuhillp17Xy2bBE/s400/GayStreet042811_003.jpg" /></a><br />In the next few weeks we will be working on the remaining punchlist items. Thanks for your interest in the 100 Block of S. Gay Street.<br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div>Rick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-48063010670887948892011-03-01T05:33:00.000-08:002011-05-19T10:52:37.974-07:00ParkingI just wanted to give you a quick update on some parking issues for the 100 Block of S. Gay Street.<br /><br />This week we plan to lower the price for parking on the Jackson Avenue Parking lot to bring this cost in line with the meters on Gay Street. The new cost will be .50 an hour or $4 for the entire day. Monthly parking rates will remain at $40.<br /><br />Also we are in the process of placing a Commercial Loading Zone sign on the western side of the 200 Block where it is presently designated "No Parking". We are mindful here of the central garbage location we have agreed to for the block. At some point, KAT may need this space for a Trolley stop but we wanted to put these spaces back in service. In addition to loading and unloading these spaces will be available for free after 6 and on weekends as are other commercial loading spaces.<br /><br />Lastly, we continue to work on getting the two parking kiosks for the 100 Block. I have scheduled a meeting today to get a status report.<br /><br />Thanks for your interest and don't forget First Friday this week. Also the Mardi Growl parade and event (<a href="http://www.cityofknoxville.org/Press_Releases/Content/2011/0211.asp">http://www.cityofknoxville.org/Press_Releases/Content/2011/0211.asp</a>) will be Saturday starting at our new Downtown Dog Park and ending at Market Square.Rick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-9115454431465395782011-02-10T08:06:00.000-08:002011-05-19T11:02:21.214-07:00Update - February 10, 2011Hello to everyone. I hope this year has been kind so far.<br /><br />I have just a little news I thought some of you would want to know about. The 100 Block Association has now formed and I would encourage those on the 100 Block to get involved there.<br />Since I have now taken over the Downtown Coordinator duties, I am attending their meetings and I know your representatives there are doing some good work.<br /><br />One area I heard a lot about while our construction was going on was short term parking. I am pleased to announce that we now have installed two 15 minute parking meters in the Gay Street Viaduct (see picture below) which will be enforced 24/7 including weekends. This is a switch as all parking after 6:00pm and on weekends had been free.<br /><br />If this accomplishes our goals here, the thought is that we may add a few other meters around town. I have also discussed maybe having a spot or two on the Cradle of Country Music Park area parking lot.<br /><br /><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRD5BYwzoTrMb6ZzNfE8NMmC03aeuuZeNWVYMx99j_85khXwg0E9yYADztamjwFEXJ_daqQ6gqofY28SiWCesOUtrI4EokT6RDZQ8_sexf1iaCd564hd_7NPv8VnLyocNq3FlNoWt_jfOS/s1600/15+minute+parking.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5572094572355839506" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRD5BYwzoTrMb6ZzNfE8NMmC03aeuuZeNWVYMx99j_85khXwg0E9yYADztamjwFEXJ_daqQ6gqofY28SiWCesOUtrI4EokT6RDZQ8_sexf1iaCd564hd_7NPv8VnLyocNq3FlNoWt_jfOS/s400/15+minute+parking.JPG" /></a> I have also been in discussion about making the current "no parking" area on the 200 Block of S. Gay Street a Commercial Loading area. That way it would be available for parking after 6:00pm and on weekends until such time at the KAT Trolley needs that space. After attending the KAT meetings, it appears to me to be in the fall before that occurs. Of course we have also agreed to create a central space for garbage collection in this part of the 200 Block so we will need to clearly mark off that area.<br /><br />Some other changes we are discussing, and I believe will happen soon, is to reduce the parking fee on the Jackson Avenue lot. I will post more on this when it happens.<br /><br />The kiosks planned for the 100 Block are still being discussed and I will continue to pursue that and will let you all know when that happens. The units we hope to order are basically identical to the one installed on the Jackson Avenue parking lot.<br /><br />I have been in contact with the Service Department and KPD about the dog waste situation and new signs and barrels for the waste have been installed. Everyone of the block needs to take responsibility for their pets, obviously, to help us all keep this area one of the premier spots in the City.<br /><br />Below is a picture I took of the Block from the Viaduct.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2QvRwBdmNO-63GsR9WvDqvDRLrOZ1akhFP5Gnb3N2eq-CIVByorrFSymalcoxlbXnjJiOG6OF2ZbfmkwKn-i4x9mdBvSmGVywZDikpA-u4Ga7BbCCMKQAxQSxMZt9rBfFR6j73-jflGuF/s1600/100+bl+Feb2011.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5572094495249956722" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2QvRwBdmNO-63GsR9WvDqvDRLrOZ1akhFP5Gnb3N2eq-CIVByorrFSymalcoxlbXnjJiOG6OF2ZbfmkwKn-i4x9mdBvSmGVywZDikpA-u4Ga7BbCCMKQAxQSxMZt9rBfFR6j73-jflGuF/s400/100+bl+Feb2011.JPG" /></a> As always, thanks for your interest.</p>Rick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-21872260544024083902010-12-15T12:19:00.000-08:002010-12-15T12:20:11.440-08:00Tour de Lights has been rescheduledTour de Lights has been rescheduled to Tuesday, December 21 at 7 p.m. due to inclement weather.The location and other details have not changed.<br />For more information on this year's Tour de Lights go to, http://www.knoxtrans.org/tourdelights/index.htm.<br />Please help us spread the word!<br />We’ll be passing through the 100 Block twice. You can help win the Most Welcoming Neighborhood award by being outside when the group goes by (perhaps singing carols) or decorating your balcony/building. Riders should be coming through the 100 Block the first time between 7:10 and 7:20 p.m., and the second time between 8 and 8:20 p.m. (these are very much rough estimates!)<br />Last year there were more than 450 bicyclists, and we expect to have many more this year. For more info, call the Bicycle Program at 215-3815 or email kelley.segars@knoxtrans.orgRick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-92115005856279111972010-12-09T10:08:00.000-08:002010-12-09T10:17:19.203-08:00Construction Update- December 9, 2010As most of you know, the 100 Block of S. Gay Street Streetscapes Project is just about finished. With the delivery and installation of the sod (see picture below) near the Cradle of Country Music Park, the work has been completed.<br /><br /><br /><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW_nrq0Wos1udihEoO8ZMO4oHBYK4tBbR6YTuODLOXdFZTLBPlVWg3BeADTEynLKISM_0FtOu7IQDKu3wP88bcD6UBgwR-l0VF96HgJMiJNZLdGvJEWa7JCGd9jyvNFmMIMOhtGw-2HmKL/s1600/100+sod.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548746391264922498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW_nrq0Wos1udihEoO8ZMO4oHBYK4tBbR6YTuODLOXdFZTLBPlVWg3BeADTEynLKISM_0FtOu7IQDKu3wP88bcD6UBgwR-l0VF96HgJMiJNZLdGvJEWa7JCGd9jyvNFmMIMOhtGw-2HmKL/s400/100+sod.JPG" border="0" /></a> We are still compiling a punch list of smaller issues to be resolved but I think we can all be proud of what we accomplished here. Everyone worked together through some pretty tough times and I am grateful for all of the patience and understanding on all sides throughout this difficult project.</p><p>I attended a meeting of the 100 Block Association this week and they plan to archive this blog for future reference.</p><p>Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all!<br /></p>Rick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-73821957596258923862010-11-22T05:45:00.000-08:002011-05-19T10:59:44.422-07:00Arts & Culture Alliance Presents "Con_struct" by Aaron Shugart-BrownArts & Culture Alliance Presents "Con_struct"<br />by Aaron Shugart-Brown<br /><br />(11/19/2010/Knoxville) - The Arts & Culture Alliance is pleased to present a new exhibition entitled "Con_struct: Revisiting the 100 Block Construction Project" by Aaron Shugart-Brown, opening Wednesday, December 8, at 5:30 PM in the Balcony of the Emporium Center. In December of 2007, Shugart-Brown opened Unarmed Merchants, an artisan gallery located on the 100 Block of Gay Street in downtown Knoxville. Just fourteen months later, in February of 2009, the City of Knoxville began an extensive, eighteen-month construction project on the 100 and 200 Blocks of Gay Street to rebuild the support structures, relocate and realign all utilities, and replace surface-level streetscape features. During those eighteen months, the construction affected every aspect of Shugart-Brown's life, including business, personal relationships with family and friends, and the art he created. "Con_struct" represents the body of work created by Shugart-Brown during that time as well as abstract photographs of the construction project itself. During the time he spent adjacent to the epicenter of the 100 Block construction project, a question emerged: was there an overarching aesthetic that could be derived from the process itself? Through all of the noise, dust, and debris, Shugart-Brown challenged himself to find the raw beauty of such an intrusive element. "I wanted to get right up in the face of my assailant and document a counterpoint to the frustration I experienced," says Shugart-Brown. "Using the tools of photography, mixed media paintings, and watercolor, I wanted a new visual language to emerge that would help describe this experience. With the final phase of the 100 Block Construction ending just two weeks before my exhibition opens, I feel that this show is a good, encompassing epilogue to a story many people are glad is finished." For more information on Shugart-Brown, visit <a href="http://www.shugartbrown.com/">http://www.shugartbrown.com/</a>.<br /><br />For more information on the 100 Block Construction Project, visit <a href="http://100blockconstructionknox.blogspot.com/">http://100blockconstructionknox.blogspot.com</a>.<br /><br />"Con_struct" will be displayed in the Balcony at the Emporium Center, 100 S. Gay Street, from December 8-23, 2010. An opening reception will take place on Wednesday, December 8, from 5:30-8:30 PM. Gallery hours are Monday-Friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. For more information, please contact the Arts & Culture Alliance at (865) 523-7543 or visit <a href="http://www.knoxalliance.com/">http://www.knoxalliance.com/</a>.<br /><br />About the Arts & Culture Alliance<br /><br />The Arts & Culture Alliance serves and supports a diverse community of artists, arts organizations, and cultural institutions. The Alliance receives financial support from the Tennessee Arts Commission (<a href="http://www.arts.state.tn.us/">http://www.arts.state.tn.us/</a> <http:>). Special thanks to<br />Bluegill Creative: Design and Marketing Communications (<a href="http://www.bluegillcreative.com/">http://www.bluegillcreative.com/</a> <http:>).Rick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-18724770380541250092010-11-22T05:42:00.000-08:002011-05-19T11:00:19.436-07:004th annual Tour de Lights bike ridePlease note the following unique event:<br /><br />4th annual Tour de Lights bike ride<br />Thursday, Dec 16<br />Ride leaves at 7 p.m.<br />Krutch Park/Market St.<br /><br />Join us for the 4th annual holiday bike tour of downtown Knoxville and historic neighborhoods. Riders are encouraged get creative with lights and costumes for the Decorating Contest. Hot cocoa and treats provided by Mast General Store after the ride. All ages welcome for this short, casual-paced ride. Sponsored by the City of Knoxville and the TPO Bicycle Program. More details, route and photos from past years at http://www.knoxtrans.org/tourdelights/index.htm<br />We’ll be passing through the 100 Block twice. You can help win the Most Welcoming Neighborhood award by being outside when the group goes by (perhaps singing carols) or decorating your balcony/building. Riders should be coming through the 100 Block the first time between 7:10 and 7:20 p.m., and the second time between 8 and 8:20 p.m. (these are very much rough estimates!)<br /><br />Last year there were more than 450 bicyclists, and we expect to have many more this year. For more info, call the Bicycle Program at 215-3815 or email <a href="mailto:kelley.segars@knoxtrans.org">kelley.segars@knoxtrans.org</a>Rick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-59310013273388356312010-11-18T10:03:00.000-08:002010-11-18T10:13:01.047-08:00Construction Update- November 18, 2010As many of you know, we have now reopened both the 100 and 200 Blocks of S. Gay Street and the trees are installed.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDwx9_UgU_QiTMiJrWapUMzfgTiG2xYvz5oGadAdSRrwEmOJf9DRFUOYlGPip-uvrPrZn80EMMj_Lim2p-DCb6yoUIicHAA45NA4WmRLNfd3Mjory3YiCF9EthP5YLXcNwjGVQQ65q_2jg/s1600/tree+delivery.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540952698728050578" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDwx9_UgU_QiTMiJrWapUMzfgTiG2xYvz5oGadAdSRrwEmOJf9DRFUOYlGPip-uvrPrZn80EMMj_Lim2p-DCb6yoUIicHAA45NA4WmRLNfd3Mjory3YiCF9EthP5YLXcNwjGVQQ65q_2jg/s400/tree+delivery.JPG" border="0" /></a> The above picture is of the tree delivery.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjxxU3o5JmmeM7xEABb75SdnfN-NG3Za9qkox3adOt-PxlnBzi6xrCbFPkUxTctjxfra6MdYB35IhqEnfv_3dsME6vG1LEVL0IauBMiG3xwc8qwFXVXMvsFtyS7UMrM-QWL4CfH0MDPj6O/s1600/one+tree+side.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540952569924154146" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjxxU3o5JmmeM7xEABb75SdnfN-NG3Za9qkox3adOt-PxlnBzi6xrCbFPkUxTctjxfra6MdYB35IhqEnfv_3dsME6vG1LEVL0IauBMiG3xwc8qwFXVXMvsFtyS7UMrM-QWL4CfH0MDPj6O/s400/one+tree+side.JPG" border="0" /></a> Above is a picture of the first two trees in place at Jackson Avenue.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEify0Qlv4m49hDV99qZAJHxKx4D61D8a5shYF4LoWsmZvqyXZmYAnU9yRul6CSaWO6mUfXVyBTmPK6PB0YU0wCNwvsD7BIPgAZUV52Ydik4gGSmvOFrKXpTHWuXbUf681MuMTWLVnCb0LkR/s1600/trees+on+side.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540952379637936466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEify0Qlv4m49hDV99qZAJHxKx4D61D8a5shYF4LoWsmZvqyXZmYAnU9yRul6CSaWO6mUfXVyBTmPK6PB0YU0wCNwvsD7BIPgAZUV52Ydik4gGSmvOFrKXpTHWuXbUf681MuMTWLVnCb0LkR/s400/trees+on+side.JPG" border="0" /></a> The picture below is of the completed street. I think it looks fantastic.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpetvSt60NXXBY3gTFHEg3lgORf0bnajjJHaOLFPXZZMMI-OjbCgfiK4amFGhxLjgDtzxGcs5vHdv2tHMLvBkRrf5J2ycHzAhZCPEJUd_VTXN-8aBkN3rb1PrBFPTLtFOPPh6v0wZrshxx/s1600/all+trees.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540952182775638834" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpetvSt60NXXBY3gTFHEg3lgORf0bnajjJHaOLFPXZZMMI-OjbCgfiK4amFGhxLjgDtzxGcs5vHdv2tHMLvBkRrf5J2ycHzAhZCPEJUd_VTXN-8aBkN3rb1PrBFPTLtFOPPh6v0wZrshxx/s400/all+trees.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Early next week the Cradle of Country Music Park area will have some work with the sod being installed. Some of the new trees were installed in this area as well.</div><div> </div><div>I hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving. </div><div>As always, thanks for your interest.<br /><br /><br /></div><div></div></div></div>Rick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-60174413023965069132010-11-10T06:24:00.000-08:002010-11-10T06:32:07.371-08:00Construction Update- November 10, 2010Please note the following press release:<br /><br /><br />PRESS RELEASE<br /><br /><br /> The 100 Block of Gay Street will be closed beginning Monday, November 15, so crews can install about two dozen large elm trees along the street. The 200 Block will also be closed later during the week for the landscaping effort.<br /><br />The work – the final phase of the Gay Street Streetscapes Project - is expected to take five days, or through November 19, to complete. The trees are 20-25 feet high and contractors will be using heavy equipment to plant them in tree wells already installed in the sidewalks.<br /><br />While the street will be closed, pedestrians will still have access along the 100 and 200 blocks during the project. The work will begin on the 100 Block and travel south, toward the heart of downtown, and into the 200 block as the week progresses.<br /><br />Both blocks will not be closed at the same time.<br /><br />Crews with Southern Constructors began the Gay Street Streetscapes project in the spring of 2009 and over the next 15 months replaced the street and replaced and widened the sidewalks on the 100 and 200 blocks.<br /><br /> Contractors also renovated the bridge-like supporting structure that has held the 100 Block of Gay Street suspended one story above the original street for nearly a century and upgraded the utility infrastructure along both blocks.<br /><br />Most of the work was completed by August but contractors needed to wait until the more favorable fall conditions for tree planting.<br /><br /><br />In addition, the Contractor will begin sodding the area around the Cradle of Country Music Park and will begin replanting the planter boxes. This work will finish up our project except for a few loose ends the City will begin working on.<br /><br />Please don't forget the Veterans Day Parade at 10:30 on Thursday November 11, 2010. The route will once again bring the Parade down the 100 and 200 Blocks of S. Gay Street ending on Depot Street.<br /><br />Thanks to everyone for their kind words and encouragement throughout this project. It was truly a team effort by all.Rick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-72497965611974368812010-10-27T07:16:00.000-07:002011-05-19T11:03:59.577-07:00Halloween Block PartyFrom our friends at Slamdot:<br /><br />Time<br />Friday, October 29 · 5:30pm - 10:00pm<br /><br />Location<br />100 Block of Gay Street, Downtown Knoxville<br />108 S. Gay Street<br />Knoxville, TN<br /><br />Created By<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/slamdot">Slamdot</a><br /><br />You're invited to Nightmare on Gay Street, a family-friendly Halloween event hosted by Slamdot, on Friday, October 29th, from 5:30 pm to 10 pm, on the 100 Block of Gay Street in downtown Knoxville, with a private Haunted Open House at the Slamdot Store for our customers and friends.For all those souls who dare, come join your fellow humans...dead or alive...and bring your young to partake in the night of fright and eve of enchan...tment, where we hope you'll escape unscathed to tell your own twisted tale of....- Live music from WE Have a Tradition- Special performance of "Thriller" by Momentum Dance Lab, Knoxville's newest modern dance company founded in 2007 (learn more at <a onmousedown="'UntrustedLink.bootstrap($(this)," href="http://www.momentumdancelab.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.momentumdancelab.com/</a>)- Food vendors, including Bread of Heaven Catering BBQ (<a onmousedown="'UntrustedLink.bootstrap($(this)," href="http://www.breadofheavencatering.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.breadofheavencatering.com/</a>), Larry's Coney Island, Rita's Ice (<a onmousedown="'UntrustedLink.bootstrap($(this)," href="http://www.ritasknoxville.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.ritasknoxville.com/</a>), kettle corn and lemonade from Steamboat Sandwiches!- Ghost story read by Mayor Tim Burchett at 6:30!- Downtown candy crawl- Costume contests for all ages- A pumpkin carving contest among downtown businesses- Creepy critters from Ijams Nature Center- A Vampire Castle bounce house- Medieval swordfighting demonstrations by the Lukasbruder fighting guild- Kid's Halloween games, including Candy Corn Guess, Mummy Bowling and Guess the Monster Parts- Spooky Snapshots by Jennie Andrews Photography- A mystical magician- Wisdom Wagon fortune telling- Monster face painting- Trick-or-Tattoos- And much more!For the official Nightmare on Gay Street flyer, please visit <a onmousedown="'UntrustedLink.bootstrap($(this)," href="http://www.nightmareongaystreet.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.nightmareongaystreet.com/</a>, and share this with anyone you know, including zombies, ghosts, goblins, werewolves, vampires, witches, mummies or any other supernatural beings you may be acquainted with. And a special thanks to Meadow View Greenhouse and Garden Center (<a onmousedown="'UntrustedLink.bootstrap($(this)," href="http://www.meadowviewgreenhouse.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.meadowviewgreenhouse.com/</a>) for contributing to the Halloween decor.At the Slamdot Store, we'll be having a private Haunted Open House for our close friends and customers. We will have beer, wine, light refreshments, Halloween music, and a bone-chilling scene to mingle and network with others, along with some fangtastic door prizes! Food will be available to purchase outside during the Nightmare on Gay Street event. All you should bring is a costume and your business cards, although neither are required. The Slamdot Store is located at 108 S. Gay Street, Knoxville, TN 37902.Please RSVP no later than Monday, October 25th, to rsvp@slamdot.com with your name and the number of additional guests you will be bringing.*NOTE: We're requiring all those attending Slamdot's Haunted Open House to RSVP, as we're limiting entry to those who are signed up to come. However, all are welcome to come out for the Nightmare on Gay Street event! The Slamdot Store is located at 108 S. Gay Street, Knoxville, TN 37902<br /><br />Also please note that the 100 Block and 200 Block will be closed to vehicle traffic from 3pm until 11pm and there will be no onstreet parking all day Friday.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.nightmareongaystreet.com/">http://www.nightmareongaystreet.com/</a><br /><a href="http://tnjn.com/2010/oct/20/nightmare-on-gay-street-brings/">http://tnjn.com/2010/oct/20/nightmare-on-gay-street-brings/</a>Rick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-48118103005283093072010-10-06T12:42:00.000-07:002010-10-06T12:45:28.451-07:00City People's 2010 Downtown Homes TourMark your calendar for the City People 2010 Downtown Homes Tour on 10/10/10 -- Sunday, October 10. The tour will begin at 10 a.m., and 10 beautiful downtown living spaces will be on the self-guided tour this year. Advanced tickets (through 11pm, October 9th) will be -- you guessed it -- just $10 and can also be purchased on-line at our website www.citypeople.org<http://www.citypeople.org>. Advanced tickets will also be available at Abode on Market Square and Bliss Home on Market Square and at their west Knoxville location through Oct. 9.<br /><br />Day-of tickets are $15.<br /><br /><br />We have a great line-up of home including two newly opened buildings - the Daylight on Union Avenue and Southeastern Glass on Jackson Avenue. Other Buildings include the Mill Agent, the Carson, Lerner Lofts, Emporium, Phoenix, and the Bungalows on Market Square, and individual residences on Gay Street and Jackson Avenue.<br /><br />More than 700 people participated in the 2009 Downtown Homes Tour, touring furnished residences of all types and sizes throughout Downtown Knoxville. Units were housed in everything from carefully restored historical buildings to loft warehouse space to beautiful new construction. Many of downtown's current residents were introduced to urban living through one of the City People Downtown Homes Tours, helping Knoxville's center city grow to more than 2,000 residents over the last few years! Proceeds from Downtown Homes Tour are reinvested back into Knoxville's center city community through grants to downtown causes such as Shakespeare on the Square, James White Fort, Market Square Farmers Market, and more.Rick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-8829058639404891502010-10-06T10:30:00.000-07:002010-10-06T10:31:59.686-07:00Hola Festival 2010What: Hola Festival 2010<br />When: Saturday, October 9, 2010 - 11:00am<br />Where: 100 Block of Gay Street<br /><a href="http://www.holaknoxville.org/festival/index.php" target="_blank">Hola Festival 2010</a> comes to the 100 Block of Gay Street this Saturday, Oct. 9 from 11AM to 8PM. Hola Festival celebrates diversity as part of Hispanic Heritage Month and features authentic music and dance performances, food, cultural exhibits, and a Parade of Nations.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.holaknoxville.org/festival/happenings.php">http://www.holaknoxville.org/festival/happenings.php</a>Rick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-32269038337085441242010-09-30T08:31:00.000-07:002010-09-30T08:32:19.626-07:00Block PartyPlease don't forget this event!<br /><br />Friday October 1, 2010<br />Block off the Night to Celebrate the Arts<br />100 Block Party - South Gay Street<br />5:30 pm to 9 pm<br />Family Friendly Fun!! Free Entertainment, Live Music & Food Vendors in celebration of the reopening of the 100 Block of S. Gay Street. Come experience Cirque Du Gay Street featuring trapeze artist, aerial dancing on silks, fire eating, fire breathing and Poi. There will also be performances by Momentum Dance Lab, Contemporary Rock Band "We have a Tradition", an Award winning performance of "Thriller" and the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra Brass Quintet. Celebrate the reopening of the 100 Block by dancing in the street.Rick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-37368670886884079752010-09-10T14:52:00.000-07:002010-09-10T15:00:08.981-07:00Jackson Avenue Parking LotWe plan to reopen the Jackson Avenue Parking lot this weekend.<br /><br /><br />Of course it will be free parking for the weekend as we have for other parking downtown.<br /><br />The City of Knoxville will begin charging for parking in the Jackson Avenue Parking Lot beginning on September 13 at 6:00am – though parking will still be free there at night and on weekends.<br /><br />The Public Building Authority and Republic Parking will manage the Jackson Avenue Parking Lot for the city and will offer paid daily and monthly parking.Rates will be $1 an hour, for a maximum daily rate of $8, or monthly parking is available for $40. For more information on rates please contact Republic Parking at 865-524-0602 or PBA at 865-595-3350.Rick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-75994623120031931602010-09-01T07:47:00.000-07:002010-09-01T11:31:48.704-07:00September 1, 2010 UpdatePlease remember the renovations to the Jackson Avenue Parking lot beginning today. Details were provided in the previous post.<br /><br /><br /><br />Almost all of the construction has now been completed with only some landscaping remaining.<br /><br />As we noted earlier, Gay Street will be closed for an additional two days in order to plant the large trees. This will likely occur in late September/ early October.<br /><br /><br /><br />The Block Party is scheduled for October 1, 2010 and will coincide with the October First Friday.<br /><br />Please mark your calenders for this exciting event.<br /><br /><br /><br />The 100 Block Association has been meeting for organizational purposes and I would encourage folks on the block to help out and participate.<br /><br /><br /><br />Congratulations to the folks at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Slamdot</span> on their five year anniversary. The had a very nice event at their business yesterday and I am sure they would be happy to visit with any of you.<br /><br /><br /><br />Of course the September First Friday is this week and this will be the first time we have had this event with the road completely reopened. I hope to see you there.<br /><br /><br /><br />Thanks for your interest.Rick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-53163863377791017152010-08-24T05:42:00.000-07:002010-08-24T05:44:40.922-07:00Jackson Avenue Parking LotPRESS RELEASE<br /><br /> <br /> The City of Knoxville will begin charging for parking in the Jackson Avenue Parking Lot beginning on or around September 10 – though parking will still be free there at night and on weekends.<br /><br /> The lot will be closed temporarily beginning September 1, for cleaning and re-striping and to allow the city to install parking equipment needed for the switch to paid parking. All vehicles must be removed from that lot by 7 a.m. on Sept. 1.<br /><br /> Currently the city offers free parking in the Jackson Avenue lot – which includes roughly 200 spaces - and has since it purchased the property last year in the midst of the Gay Street Streetscapes project.<br /><br />The city will continue to offer free parking at the 200-space Old City Lot located nearby beneath the James White Parkway.<br /><br /> The new parking management policy is aimed at supporting businesses located on the 100 Block and North Gay Street areas by making sure there are spaces available for people patronizing those establishments during the day. There is concern that if the city doesn’t charge for parking a growing number of the spaces will be used by downtown workers who park there throughout the day.<br /> That would leave a limited number of spaces for customers and clients of businesses in the vicinity. The city had been asked by some residents and business owners in the 100 Block area about the issue.<br />“When the city was approached to create a management structure in the lot one of the things we heard repeatedly was that both businesses and residents are helped when there is consistent turnover and availability,” said Hannah Parker, the city’s policy analyst and downtown coordinator. “While we elected not to charge for parking throughout the Gay Street construction project, we are doing so now in an effort to continue to spur redevelopment along Jackson and Gay, which is quickly becoming one of the most important east/west corridors in downtown.”<br />As part of the upcoming renovations the city will include a payment kiosk that accepts coins, bills and is capable of conducting secure credit card transactions.<br /><br />The Public Building Authority and Republic Parking will manage the Jackson Avenue Parking Lot for the city and will offer paid daily and monthly parking.<br /><br />Rates will be $1 an hour, for a maximum daily rate of $8, or monthly parking is available for $40. For more information on rates please contact Republic Parking at 865-524-0602 or PBA at 865-595-3350.Rick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-21703129308839792302010-08-12T10:39:00.001-07:002010-08-16T11:40:08.327-07:00Construction Update - August 12, 2010The 100 Block of S. Gay Street has now reopened without any hitches that I am aware of. The next few pictures are of the roadway just before it was opened for traffic.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigtdcxP3jDX2a0UQfQ75dGyC4HtRyhpBziR985nTh5nqnJO-atmsOAhU9SJpVoSmOxmv0g2yPu4BUcVHwz9ub4gqzTdX-iLey_kBzdgB0DCtrnfq5ixraCIaGPJ0urMiy3P5j2Mn6Ro5Bx/s1600/100+bl+open+pre+open1.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504580449296801154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigtdcxP3jDX2a0UQfQ75dGyC4HtRyhpBziR985nTh5nqnJO-atmsOAhU9SJpVoSmOxmv0g2yPu4BUcVHwz9ub4gqzTdX-iLey_kBzdgB0DCtrnfq5ixraCIaGPJ0urMiy3P5j2Mn6Ro5Bx/s400/100+bl+open+pre+open1.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj743WJQkBp9iYGdv7-gkIR9jEGhBOhJJQfwQ8xB1OLBKjb_q-wbh54femfT8KzMmFrR8_25a9duVG-r9W82_B4oV-pkVC6zH5c5zuV7DQlXmZaPhz_F1SrOBPpYZEuMHepZLw1OW6AXvOU/s1600/100+bl+preopen+2.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504580365664286802" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj743WJQkBp9iYGdv7-gkIR9jEGhBOhJJQfwQ8xB1OLBKjb_q-wbh54femfT8KzMmFrR8_25a9duVG-r9W82_B4oV-pkVC6zH5c5zuV7DQlXmZaPhz_F1SrOBPpYZEuMHepZLw1OW6AXvOU/s400/100+bl+preopen+2.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504580226259629810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjUcT2-Qn0GAkFWwgi6dgnjWETOizrfYkzU_OSkeueU9_2wevsOlDoMnd7OaFoZMFh-PnC26rzdxhS9peK9hCINQtPFZCQj4cLEKRQXvn3Nt4qKuXlNcYqTt3XSxvKPK8Svtvp1mpbMAU-/s400/moving+barrels.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfetb6cwaYHQfXePJO0EbQHFByrOL7LNxchjCRATBvzXoZlG4aZlwFI7uZU_WHrchbbilr4-RsqPJMzWn0bcDqVwhg_QTuWhpBUO7BnPm5uadBZxW_0LsV7UuA4nsjUaLVCqqIX62mJX38/s1600/100+bl+n+pre+open.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504580143723580450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfetb6cwaYHQfXePJO0EbQHFByrOL7LNxchjCRATBvzXoZlG4aZlwFI7uZU_WHrchbbilr4-RsqPJMzWn0bcDqVwhg_QTuWhpBUO7BnPm5uadBZxW_0LsV7UuA4nsjUaLVCqqIX62mJX38/s400/100+bl+n+pre+open.JPG" border="0" /></a> The next two pictures are of the road after opening. As we all expected, it is already getting heavy use.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyp65_ugYhPuzOvAgK951aoB4QAi05bzzNVf54dwSlLmAN1wX_SUpMhuNHflIVcaj1tD9I7oc-N9-Iq9CXak0IRlj17-f9c6gVPXbXB7n6hGcEQXboALB0BiYTlp5rmtLb2VgnFr8po2v8/s1600/100+bl+open+s.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504580045075070338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyp65_ugYhPuzOvAgK951aoB4QAi05bzzNVf54dwSlLmAN1wX_SUpMhuNHflIVcaj1tD9I7oc-N9-Iq9CXak0IRlj17-f9c6gVPXbXB7n6hGcEQXboALB0BiYTlp5rmtLb2VgnFr8po2v8/s400/100+bl+open+s.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbIdwRnvWfGPerCG99kUyrSeWXOXcu4qvsI-60HJEhY33o-RNa40aBDd0yzrF45EgZgzrfpLPsQszdkiTsF5EWYJWDIzh5fSvFjbp5o4HMpAVYdrVQcCWEsSWoqiZuzwWRXyehFyCr1_oY/s1600/100+bl+open+N.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504579971262003922" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbIdwRnvWfGPerCG99kUyrSeWXOXcu4qvsI-60HJEhY33o-RNa40aBDd0yzrF45EgZgzrfpLPsQszdkiTsF5EWYJWDIzh5fSvFjbp5o4HMpAVYdrVQcCWEsSWoqiZuzwWRXyehFyCr1_oY/s400/100+bl+open+N.JPG" border="0" /></a> The sidewalks are looking very nice as well<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJJluLhNKrWxEs74yixXHX9PnyxbKr1iq8UIPXBiAPv5y67iumF09rar9b9rzxLGdYUExt05Qg5v7Gyyh4OS1JWGDMsRbfHbzkhZL6p10MzYg9WVupTbejoVVUUSp0HAwG75DZY5HNK1hD/s1600/100+bl+sw+emp+open+s.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504579869765087842" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJJluLhNKrWxEs74yixXHX9PnyxbKr1iq8UIPXBiAPv5y67iumF09rar9b9rzxLGdYUExt05Qg5v7Gyyh4OS1JWGDMsRbfHbzkhZL6p10MzYg9WVupTbejoVVUUSp0HAwG75DZY5HNK1hD/s400/100+bl+sw+emp+open+s.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />I could not resist posting a sketch of the above picture using an app on my Iphone.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIcqmhuczLpdBFV9i_w9TAIPG9l9dSGYoCP869vDg7t7pT5DpX3LjYxEof0AGTJSASLgFRcCAbdZDyV0klWvNZ8z-SOW6dUJO6Y-ASs_CqBJovtf08Z8o2XLc5TejNOq81zjnNaOMhvjCw/s1600/sw+s+sketch.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504579743144110610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIcqmhuczLpdBFV9i_w9TAIPG9l9dSGYoCP869vDg7t7pT5DpX3LjYxEof0AGTJSASLgFRcCAbdZDyV0klWvNZ8z-SOW6dUJO6Y-ASs_CqBJovtf08Z8o2XLc5TejNOq81zjnNaOMhvjCw/s400/sw+s+sketch.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />The parking meter kiosks for the 100 Block are still being ordered and before those are installed we will begin an education process. The same machine will be used on the Jackson Avenue parking lot. This lot is set to be cleaned and restriped in early September. I will post more on this at a later date.<br /><br />The large 20-25 foot Elm trees will be planted sometime in October and will require that we shut the road back down for about two days. I will work with folks on the Block to get the best time for that work.<br /><br />The plants in the planters will be replaced soon as many have obviously not survived the heat and the landscaping around the Cradle of Country Music Park is ongoing.<br /><br />About all that remains to be done on the Block is some cleanup and more caulking.<br /><br />The Block Party planning is continuing with the projected date of the the Party being September 10, 2010. Also, the 100 block organizational meeting is at 5:30 PM on August 18th at the Emporium building.<br /><br />Finally, it is long overdue to thank the folks who got the job done for us here.<br /><br />Terry Snelling was our Job Superintendent from Southern Constructors and we were so lucky to have him in charge. You often hear the term "herding cats" and that is exactly what this complicated project was like. Lest we forget, we had one of the wettest years last year, one of the coldest stretches, and now one of the hottest summers on record. This combined with all if the redesigns and and unknown issues resulted in a monumental task just to get the job done anywhere near the projected date. Terry methodically worked through each challenge and issue getting the right folks at the right times with the right equipment to handle each task. On a job like this , the Superintendent is also responsible for each of the subcontractors. At various times on this job we had well over 50 folks working on various tasks. While all of this was going on Terry always kept an eye out for how it might effect the folks on the Block. Whenever he knew he was going to create a hardship, he went out of his way to find something he could do to make it up to folks if he could. You don't often see that type of caring on these types of jobs.<br /><br />Terry and his crew actually became a part of the fabric of the Block and went out of their way many times to assist anyone there needing help. His folks were courteous and hard working at all times. Alex, J.R., Jerry and many others who were out there almost all of the time really went above the call of the duty, I thought, in their dealings with the public. It is a testament to the folks at Southern Constructors that they have folks in their employ with this type of respect. Thanks to Richard Huskey, Owner, and to Mike Gray who handled the financial issues and project management for Southern. Those guys all did a great job.<br /><br />Also many of the subs were equally as helpful on this job. Blount Excavating had most of the heavy equipment and Roger Williams was usually the guy in charge and operating the equipment for them. He was the big guy out there sometimes directing crews but also oftentimes directing traffic, or helping folks move in, or giving directions to folks, or helping folks park correctly. He and Len Smith and his crews played a big role in our success here.<br /><br />Massey Electric folks also did a great job working with us and KUB. Thanks to Mike and Andy and the rest of those crews as well.<br /><br />From the Public Sector end, we really had to have a lot of coordination with the various utilities particularly. Everette Noe, Gordon Bryant, and Bill Grady were the engineers who really helped make it happen. Jason Cole with KUB was their inspector and Jason's assistance was really invaluable to our timeline.<br /><br />Andrew Luttrell was the Inspector on site from City Engineering and he was another integral part to getting this job done. His timely suggestions and expertise at critical times played a huge role in our success.<br /><br />Robin Tipton was the City Engineer responsible for this project and she was just remarkable. I had worked with Robin some many years ago but her knowledge and caring and thoughtfulness here really made a huge difference and I was so impressed with her.<br /><br />As a surveyor myself, I must acknowledge the huge contributions made by our City Surveyors, Russ, Rusty and Craig. So many problems were avoided by their project knowledge and redesigns in the field.<br /><br />Others involved in the City were Engineers Tom Clabo, Brent Johnson, and Director Steve King.<br /><br />Folks in the City of Knoxville should be proud that we have such a professional staff on board.<br /><br />Folks in my shop were also a great resource and those folks would include Bill Lyons, Sr. Director of Policy and Communications, Hannah Parker, Anne Wallace, Bob Whetsel, and Randy Kenner.<br /><br />Folks involved from Vaughn and Melton included John Kenst, Andrew Hutsell, and David Harrell to name a few. Ross/Fowler had the landscape architecture part of the job and Mike Fowler was our resource there.<br /><br />Mickey Mallone, Director of Special Events for the City, Michelle Hummel of the CBID, Bobby Hubbs, Mark Fortner, and Brad Anders of KPD were also folks who assisted us.<br /><br />There are, of course, many others to thank but I have already gone on too long.<br /><br />I would be remiss if I did not thank Mayor Haslam and the members of City Council for having the courage to move this complicated yet much needed project forward.<br /><br />Most of all the thanks go to all of the folks on the 100 Block who lived through the dust, noise, weather, utility outages, unknown pathways, and general disruptions of their lives. This is one of the most densely populated ares of our region so the impact here was considerable.<br /></div><div><br />Your patience and understanding for the last 18 months has been amazing.<br /><br />It has been my great honor to get to know many folks on the block and I look forward to continuing those relationships.<br /><br />All of you made this project work so thank you all for a job well done.<br /><br />My posts here will probably not be as frequent but as issues arise I will continue to try to keep you informed. Please don't hesitate to contact me if I can ever help you in any way.<br /></div><div></div><div>As always, thanks for your interest. </div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Rick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-2832788847740086752010-08-10T17:08:00.000-07:002010-08-11T08:31:57.237-07:00Good NewsI just talked to the Contractor and we should have the roadway on the 100 Block of S. Gay Street reopened in the morning. I will post more details later.<br /><br />Update: The 100 Block of S. Gay Street is now open as of 8:30 this morning.Rick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-70406926015353965672010-08-06T06:35:00.000-07:002010-08-16T10:03:51.555-07:00Construction Update - August 6, 2010We are beginning to finish up the project this week by installing street signage and bike racks. The striping and other markings should be in place by tonight. The anticipated street opening is for sometime next week.<br /><br />Of course there are other details such as caulking, etc. that will still be in process after the street opens, but the vast majority of the work has been completed at this point.<br /><br /><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ3FBIQZqc43MK0DMj0GiQUXe_BQ4o0SfL6uZz1B-980GiQZuw5uSnMtg8NPtfV_qHVrpFEesEjhOMy-rgwp9M3KECLOgEvgc1TD6-CxS9QjaMuprhw7BtajJGM6r5BnfQFfHoO3jdwbtF/s1600/100+from+200.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502290647633709490" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ3FBIQZqc43MK0DMj0GiQUXe_BQ4o0SfL6uZz1B-980GiQZuw5uSnMtg8NPtfV_qHVrpFEesEjhOMy-rgwp9M3KECLOgEvgc1TD6-CxS9QjaMuprhw7BtajJGM6r5BnfQFfHoO3jdwbtF/s400/100+from+200.JPG" /></a> Some of the benches were realigned to avoid conflicts with utility boxes but overall street furniture has been placed exactly as we had planned without issue.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDXES1KW-app_RVinJbht0dQ-435VQYndHyNG-4XiBUpy7WMQbUy6xpJ3LgHx5iN48_aeeODfof89aj-39Vq6xog-KFWD5gQzM7gDPPjm80WjdF1DPugrx8-Lpbq3BH80VsB7bi1imvdDx/s1600/nama+bench.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502290450700446738" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDXES1KW-app_RVinJbht0dQ-435VQYndHyNG-4XiBUpy7WMQbUy6xpJ3LgHx5iN48_aeeODfof89aj-39Vq6xog-KFWD5gQzM7gDPPjm80WjdF1DPugrx8-Lpbq3BH80VsB7bi1imvdDx/s400/nama+bench.JPG" /></a> The holly trees for the Cradle of Country Music Park arrived and have now been planted with pin oaks and other vegetation still to come.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhawhkvPKjEgcPm9J6SCFQkEWBTENhDf1XGFzAEU6s9KpZ5c6ZZGWXEwW3ASrMBCwTIZjTbX19xCTgryGkTls3OXClVno1g9ZigBVc-1W-4Sxrrs_kQu74zgqP64qfp0ArhpvUgsLc6fLpK/s1600/hollies+on+side.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502290364454551026" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhawhkvPKjEgcPm9J6SCFQkEWBTENhDf1XGFzAEU6s9KpZ5c6ZZGWXEwW3ASrMBCwTIZjTbX19xCTgryGkTls3OXClVno1g9ZigBVc-1W-4Sxrrs_kQu74zgqP64qfp0ArhpvUgsLc6fLpK/s400/hollies+on+side.JPG" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Qyt3ryoo3auLv5LSp5Wp4VcTmZMGykdktt2qzFhEJ9ysfFUOjMCVmPZ-aDjb8eQ06Cpj_Jgre9sVrWf67YMdjibziLFJ9QHikxKCoZKNtqfk5CqV1WybCF2YfSQOeePk2JC4nfCWpbEb/s1600/hollies+planted.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502290272970665474" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Qyt3ryoo3auLv5LSp5Wp4VcTmZMGykdktt2qzFhEJ9ysfFUOjMCVmPZ-aDjb8eQ06Cpj_Jgre9sVrWf67YMdjibziLFJ9QHikxKCoZKNtqfk5CqV1WybCF2YfSQOeePk2JC4nfCWpbEb/s400/hollies+planted.JPG" /></a> Many folks have expressed concern about the existing plants in the larger planters and we are addressing those issues. The landscaper has told us that they are all suffering from shock from being planted in the heat. Let me assure everyone that they are getting plenty of water. The landscaper is watering them every morning and the City is watering them three times a week.</p><p>The landscaper, who has guaranteed the plantings, assures us that he feels they are still alive and hopefully will come back out soon. In the event any of the plants fail to survive, he will replace them in early fall.</p><p>The timeline for the planting of the large trees on the block is still in discussion.</p><p>Please join me for First Friday tonight downtown and particularly on the 100 Block of S. Gay Street. Folks on the block depend on your continued patronage.</p><p>Also please note that the city of Knoxville is looking for a design for a banner for its arts district. The winning design will go on 26 banners hung from street poles primarily along Gay Street's 100 and 200 blocks. Deadline for digital submissions is Aug. 20.<br /><br />Artists may submit up to three original designs. Submissions should include a solid color background and design using up to four colors. Designs will be juried by the city of Knoxville's Public Art Committee.<br /><br />More guidelines and an application are at <a href="http://www.knoxalliance.com/">http://www.knoxalliance.com/</a> or interested artists can contact Suzanne Cada at the Arts & Culture Alliance, 865-523-7543 or <a href="mailto:sc@knoxalliance.com">sc@knoxalliance.com</a>. </p><p>Plans are continuing to be made for the Block Party tentatively scheduled for September 10, 2010. A brown bag lunch meeting will be held at the Emporium at noon on Monday, August 9 to discuss the planned event.</p><p>As always, thanks for your interest.</p>Rick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-1882609915082442342010-07-29T07:21:00.001-07:002010-08-16T10:05:10.381-07:00Construction Update - July 29, 2010As most of you know, Jackson Avenue has reopened and we are continuing to make progress in the final stages of the project. Bike racks and signage should be installed next week and the final striping of the parking stalls and roadway will occur soon as well.<br /><br />Please be aware that the parking areas along the 200 Block will no longer be available after the roadway is restriped. The west side of the 200 Block of S. Gay Street will become a KAT bus stop and the eastern side will become a commercial loading zone as our plans have long indicated.<br /><br />There will be also be two additional loading zones located on the 100 Block.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB1vToDTnBRAfSQhnvUYrDV8UfjIhpfPETqiOgcE2YoPSfHkxqiSF74saAvOjdZDTR70tMHQzlYmICztb55ckvHfNEIDazwINdigPuyhTpY5z8KJfp3JpIypVVKmw2VrxnFmdxXWM4TqtV/s1600/jack+finish.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499334159287432818" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB1vToDTnBRAfSQhnvUYrDV8UfjIhpfPETqiOgcE2YoPSfHkxqiSF74saAvOjdZDTR70tMHQzlYmICztb55ckvHfNEIDazwINdigPuyhTpY5z8KJfp3JpIypVVKmw2VrxnFmdxXWM4TqtV/s400/jack+finish.JPG" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHURVxXVn4yOoqRQZP5SBOa4GEtyWog5cRkrxS4z6RcUbP84sOZ4vnpc_6isW0g72qsTZfpWWbGUD-jZHu3KyFrFto5edEs5OG1H7SmaYLv0MbjrhiUBQ0WbiDEY5mw8HuDIAMyFI8LyrD/s1600/from+viaduct.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499334070311871906" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHURVxXVn4yOoqRQZP5SBOa4GEtyWog5cRkrxS4z6RcUbP84sOZ4vnpc_6isW0g72qsTZfpWWbGUD-jZHu3KyFrFto5edEs5OG1H7SmaYLv0MbjrhiUBQ0WbiDEY5mw8HuDIAMyFI8LyrD/s400/from+viaduct.JPG" /></a> My friend, John Guston, sent me several photos taken around the time of the ribbon cutting.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyeyedT3nHRL0eB2RrbR_oFJs1sKUyuwe4CBvNRRAyGZXRwOMvcbifw8STM4LsNFVfFqxzQhM2oE0RokD_vfWZhsWUnUYO1q48X6uStvlhoqEeD_4kq8DPKdF9biYC-I-7AWA2_ldV3UFs/s1600/100+block+gay+st+openingfrom+200+7-19-10+JSG.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 268px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499333958177297746" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyeyedT3nHRL0eB2RrbR_oFJs1sKUyuwe4CBvNRRAyGZXRwOMvcbifw8STM4LsNFVfFqxzQhM2oE0RokD_vfWZhsWUnUYO1q48X6uStvlhoqEeD_4kq8DPKdF9biYC-I-7AWA2_ldV3UFs/s400/100+block+gay+st+openingfrom+200+7-19-10+JSG.JPG" /></a><br />The pictures below, I think, give a clear view of the improvements made. When the new trees arrive in early fall, the look will be complete. Additional plantings are to be placed in the planters soon as well.<br /><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499333845380038322" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHtZgvlwP03-ASPOl6WXDAwbwQENlUMpGzIvUwgpzDIpsPe5SowOqRfeSbR7P6qpd-GrId-dcLk9EXSVAxlWSyBz3oxBh1_tgI0GLxd7ozI3rJmzmogh9pNliVYjJorYHhOsWWrMGnhXt2/s400/planters+Emp.JPG" /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGua5kyJ2tPdF4gSXr3KzqGqG_LppgrZG_jY3DkybGzDE0R2Fxnie2MEXmOlIx9SjBRBVhMtzgN-wBP5JMNYe_yOObftY8-WSqA4d1eApCn423VTjJbvqr9YHnqdky2rmPFvSzyGCpb22A/s1600/100+block+gay+st+opening+nama7-19-10+JSG+(2).JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 268px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499333674885381154" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGua5kyJ2tPdF4gSXr3KzqGqG_LppgrZG_jY3DkybGzDE0R2Fxnie2MEXmOlIx9SjBRBVhMtzgN-wBP5JMNYe_yOObftY8-WSqA4d1eApCn423VTjJbvqr9YHnqdky2rmPFvSzyGCpb22A/s400/100+block+gay+st+opening+nama7-19-10+JSG+(2).JPG" /></a> We have removed the concrete in several areas of the roadway and have now replaced those sections with new concrete. It takes a little time for the concrete to cure and for the joints to be resealed with caulk, probably into the first week of August at least.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjZEX4r39DXRrJDIyny01nl0sB0wJXC9MYADmJC_CXiMoMNx9DrxywwOx5vH-a6iCfP3ltSubrj-a-Svei4_DgSmvqewQM_c9StgPycoZ_N_aWbyKi5cBOBdN5VLiBi2YfLO-OwwaNC8rT/s1600/crack+remove.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499333555523391138" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjZEX4r39DXRrJDIyny01nl0sB0wJXC9MYADmJC_CXiMoMNx9DrxywwOx5vH-a6iCfP3ltSubrj-a-Svei4_DgSmvqewQM_c9StgPycoZ_N_aWbyKi5cBOBdN5VLiBi2YfLO-OwwaNC8rT/s400/crack+remove.JPG" /></a> I know folks are always interested in the underground so below are two pictures taken under the sidewalk on the western side of the street.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVVc4OlVQLd4nKLS1AHP4_7vhyphenhyphenbNgydUdgycUV6PpVYZCZ4eyhiI9wp6Q-vgCSBssvT6RkmK5nm2hxyGmV3xC_df3KjJIDv5zei8O7amu9Xi1x5_qwhwPOq5WVDEX5ljIgsr8hnt0bqsoR/s1600/ug+fin+1.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499333468174285410" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVVc4OlVQLd4nKLS1AHP4_7vhyphenhyphenbNgydUdgycUV6PpVYZCZ4eyhiI9wp6Q-vgCSBssvT6RkmK5nm2hxyGmV3xC_df3KjJIDv5zei8O7amu9Xi1x5_qwhwPOq5WVDEX5ljIgsr8hnt0bqsoR/s400/ug+fin+1.JPG" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKw68-e0nwV2gIefXvEp4etyFFpPz9FRXiCfnpwAKtt8vaLnZzubDCHDxSdy2tSe6PHbH0sFvrBU7HJNAHFsRyBuftdMBzJ1iLuqQkCxH_K2cWWaTVGmLS4P75E1mAxDgEu7d2jnxiO50A/s1600/ug+fin+2.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499333348768299650" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKw68-e0nwV2gIefXvEp4etyFFpPz9FRXiCfnpwAKtt8vaLnZzubDCHDxSdy2tSe6PHbH0sFvrBU7HJNAHFsRyBuftdMBzJ1iLuqQkCxH_K2cWWaTVGmLS4P75E1mAxDgEu7d2jnxiO50A/s400/ug+fin+2.JPG" /></a> The Contractor is removing his office trailer and the staging materials from the Jackson Avenue parking lot and we continue to plan for the rehabilitation of that lot.<br /><br />Maintenance of the stairway at the Gay Street Viaduct is also in discussion.<br /></div><div>Please remember that KPD plans to begin enforcement of parking violations once again on the O.P. Jenkins parking lot area beginning Monday, August 2, 1010.<br /><br />The Block Party planning committee will meet for a brown bag lunch at noon on August 9, 2010 at the Emporium to discuss the event, tentatively planned for September 10, 2010.<br /></div><div></div><div>As always, thanks for your interest. </div></div></div>Rick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-6431535596081668402010-07-23T07:51:00.000-07:002010-07-23T08:27:22.652-07:00O. P. Jenkins Parking Lot areaSince the parking lot has now been restriped and the extra meters have been installed for the additional parking spaces created during our Streetscapes project on the 100 Block, we will once again begin enforcing parking violations here beginning Monday, August 2, 2010. Please help us get the word out to those interested. ThanksRick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-717386363663144697.post-67542088609332164552010-07-21T10:22:00.001-07:002010-08-16T10:06:26.938-07:00Construction Update - July 22, 2010<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNQRF20yUwwL6yOksPtPP1I4VzV-lih2ve07SZy10lsqB6-eBZ3xQrMKNdMHGZ_RCkvKdbMTO4EibufP4y5WZ9_XqF5uQUy3TQ-wRSRf6HImzp5xlRIGCpw0LzUfiO-1N_V5KdQpEnqlgq/s1600/100ribboncut1.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 291px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496411796810702354" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNQRF20yUwwL6yOksPtPP1I4VzV-lih2ve07SZy10lsqB6-eBZ3xQrMKNdMHGZ_RCkvKdbMTO4EibufP4y5WZ9_XqF5uQUy3TQ-wRSRf6HImzp5xlRIGCpw0LzUfiO-1N_V5KdQpEnqlgq/s400/100ribboncut1.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggeQ_AgcwEniV-oHvoKf17uyv0iVVcREn5ykqyT8KDTqGEAIritVuu4AMd9O_LvyMEMHdl53QOqzwzvQide3Ylx21HZMaZ17pHbOuIi0-vIngAXwFyay2CIkDrn9ReJvrV7I3hzIOmAIL6/s1600/bill+l.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496411733147339250" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggeQ_AgcwEniV-oHvoKf17uyv0iVVcREn5ykqyT8KDTqGEAIritVuu4AMd9O_LvyMEMHdl53QOqzwzvQide3Ylx21HZMaZ17pHbOuIi0-vIngAXwFyay2CIkDrn9ReJvrV7I3hzIOmAIL6/s400/bill+l.JPG" /></a> Thanks to all who attended the ribbon cutting on the 100 Block Monday. The Block Party committee is continuing to make plans for the larger event now tentatively planned for September 10, 2010. Please contact the City Office of Special Events if you have ideas or want to be included in our celebration. </div><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE0jqYgwjgZH5Ll08ykg0rqFyKT1SDzXrovHhmRFQJm2aFT0O9ZSMKblHTH6dkUWSMVzqqUc7XyDuea5t4b1ry-YtTcTNoZAUn8Tqjl3QISWdu3DoYWyG6hkqEmYy7L7PUDG91REdjQZ4b/s1600/100b+south.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496411672089525634" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE0jqYgwjgZH5Ll08ykg0rqFyKT1SDzXrovHhmRFQJm2aFT0O9ZSMKblHTH6dkUWSMVzqqUc7XyDuea5t4b1ry-YtTcTNoZAUn8Tqjl3QISWdu3DoYWyG6hkqEmYy7L7PUDG91REdjQZ4b/s400/100b+south.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAgREH6yPVXfNt1NG_SgEWiCcgFWBpOld9RELRFiYhDUAkybbt_6og2Ta-7OVKzRcH50mvlrJ918Ri6F3SOXrt7SMsRHYZyKMTW2WP9rjfetmT1zW_uxKSFmJzkZWoygXjiaBbVDxmPgys/s1600/100b+north.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496411593275063922" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAgREH6yPVXfNt1NG_SgEWiCcgFWBpOld9RELRFiYhDUAkybbt_6og2Ta-7OVKzRcH50mvlrJ918Ri6F3SOXrt7SMsRHYZyKMTW2WP9rjfetmT1zW_uxKSFmJzkZWoygXjiaBbVDxmPgys/s400/100b+north.JPG" /></a> This week the Contractor is working on correcting the issues we have with the concrete surface and that has included having to use the concrete saw to remove some of the sections of pavement. This is a noisy and dusty process as you all know but we hope to get this completed by the end of the week and pour new concrete shortly thereafter. Then we will need a least a couple of weeks for the concrete to cure so we are thinking now that the road will probably reopen a little after the first of August.<br /><br />There are still many items to finish on our punch list and we will continue to work on those issues after the road is opened. Certainly caulking all of the areas will take some time.</div><div>Many of you have asked about bike racks and we have those ready to be installed. Sometime soon we will begin installing the street signs and that will involve drilling holes in the sidewalk so we plan to drill the holes and install the bike racks at the same time. We were very happy to have the planter boxes with greenery by the ribbon cutting but even more plants will be going in as well. The trees may be delivered late next month and we will wait for the optimum time to plant those. Those are 20-25 foot elms as I understand it.<br /><br />The sod for the Cradle of Country Music Park should also arrive finally next month so we can begin to finish that bit of work.<br /><br />We are beginning to have issues with folks parking on the 100 Block, particularly at night. We have instructed KPD to keep a close watch on this and if you park there you will be cited and/or towed. We have placed no parking signs there, but folk are removing the barricades and entering the work zone. We all want this project to finish and have the road reopened as soon as possible and this is the type of situation that could cause real delays.<br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjemAbFDzl7w3k6Z5rO5La4fzqiuICxF0WJanOrd4WSyeUsPj2eJq9INHmdByAt6gGdjeL03yv1pny-rfZ0L0GGwZnigpLkJ9fKtKI3Xo3TcsL56N1ySb8VODaV6vwDyGi6n0_oY_3x-gcD/s1600/july+Jack+pave.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496411512561982386" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjemAbFDzl7w3k6Z5rO5La4fzqiuICxF0WJanOrd4WSyeUsPj2eJq9INHmdByAt6gGdjeL03yv1pny-rfZ0L0GGwZnigpLkJ9fKtKI3Xo3TcsL56N1ySb8VODaV6vwDyGi6n0_oY_3x-gcD/s400/july+Jack+pave.JPG" /></a> We have finally reopened Jackson Avenue for traffic a few days later than we had planned. We replaced the asphalt that was there before we began our work a couple of weeks ago. This asphalt does cover up a small portion of the brickwork but this is the way it has been for many years and is a result of the elevation of the Gay Street Viaduct. This issue will likely get revisited in the next couple of years when the Jackson Avenue Ramps undergo reconstruction.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5aZNBVM1kTwVgEkF2iRyI9LhWp0sbMkOILRDshPLz5TtHqWXZdpEA2QKa-p2fGkff4dw0l47yKq1dObPRdVMo4AtvAOE_lC-UvXyrRth7g_8k_0TvkhAoG7wEF0gWm_-RP0Cn_P-ZGIvf/s1600/trailor.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496411316570620514" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5aZNBVM1kTwVgEkF2iRyI9LhWp0sbMkOILRDshPLz5TtHqWXZdpEA2QKa-p2fGkff4dw0l47yKq1dObPRdVMo4AtvAOE_lC-UvXyrRth7g_8k_0TvkhAoG7wEF0gWm_-RP0Cn_P-ZGIvf/s400/trailor.JPG" /></a> The Contractor is beginning to remove his construction materials from the Jackson Avenue parking lot in anticipation of the lot reconstruction in August. The picture above is of a camper moved onto the lot a week or so ago. The Contractor came in early one night this week to discover the occupant here had "borrowed" an extension cord to hook into the Construction trailer for power. Obviously our parking lot is not a campground so we had this removed.<br /><br />Last, congratulations to our friend Stanton Webster of Nama on the birth of his daughter, Sophia Estelle Webster.<br /><br />Thanks for your interest </div></div></div></div>Rick Emmetthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03326681639386141010noreply@blogger.com0