Mayor Bill Haslam announced today the city is seeking proposals to construct single-family homes on long-vacant lots in the Fourth and Gill Historic District.

"The revitalization that has occurred in the last 20 years in this historic neighborhood in the heart of Knoxville makes this property attractive for residential development," Mayor Haslam said. "The buyer or buyers will have to commit to building homes that are consistent with the historic district's design guidelines thereby preserving the charm and character of this neighborhood."

The property is located on the site of the old McCallie School, which was built in 1907 and originally served as the municipal building for what was then the township of North Knoxville. Fire destroyed much of the building in 1995, and it was demolished and cleared soon thereafter.

The city is seeking buyers for three lots on roughly 1 acre on Gatz Street near Lovenia Avenue. The deadline for proposals is Oct. 29.

The remainder of the block toward Gill Avenue is being retained by the city as a neighborhood park. The request for proposals is available on the city's web site at www.cityofknoxville.org by calling the Knoxville Purchasing Department at 865-215-2070.