A Knoxville construction company, a team of redevelopers and a nonprofit organization that specializes in tailoring technology to help people with disabilities were honored today as Equity Award honorees.

The City of Knoxville’s Community Development Department each year recognizes the efforts of local individuals and groups in promoting equitable access to opportunities. Programs that are highlighted include fair and affordable housing, job creation, and access and inclusion of persons with disabilities. This annual event raises awareness of the importance of considering equity when community development projects are implemented.
 
Mayor Madeline Rogero, HUD Director of Community Planning and Development Mary Wilson and City Community Development Director Becky Wade congratulated the honorees during a breakfast at The Standard, 416 W. Jackson Ave.

The 2016 Equity Award honorees:

• Jones Brothers Construction – for their commitment to fair, affordable and accessible housing. The company has served as contractors since 2009 with the City’s Owner Occupied Rehabilitation Program. Jones Brothers has consistently taken extra steps to enhance the safety and comfort of homeowners while enhancing accessibility.

• East Tennessee Technology Access Center – for its work to improve access and inclusion of people with disabilities and senior citizens. Over 27 years, ETTAC has connected tens of thousands of East Tennesseans with technology and equipment that allows them to lead empowered, independent lives.

• Mark Heinz and Tim Hill – for their economic development efforts rehabilitating blighted buildings. Specifically, their $8.5 million restoration of the J.C. Penney buildings on Gay Street, with $235,000 in City façade grant assistance, created three new businesses, 17 residences and 200 new jobs.