On Wednesday, May 23, 2018 Mayor Rogero and other supporters of public art will cut a ribbon and officially reopen the historic metal staircase that connects the Gay Street Viaduct to Jackson Avenue below.

The Central Business Improvement District commissioned a mural, created by Robin Easter Design, and is installing new lighting to upgrade the staircase and improve the experience of pedestrians. The “Stories” mural depicts iconic images from Knoxville’s past and present.

The mural is the latest in a series of public art that has been installed throughout the downtown core. In total, over a half a decade, more than $1 million has been funded for new public art (including a sculpture and landscaping to be installed at the City’s Cradle of Country Music Park at Gay Street and Summit Hill Drive). The new pieces of art are being commissioned by the City, Dogwood Arts, CBID and others.

Liza Zenni, Executive Director of the Arts and Culture Alliance and staff liaison for the Public Arts Committee, will be available to detail several of the large City-funded arts projects scheduled to be installed this year and next.

Anyone needing a disability accommodation to attend the ribbon-cutting should contact ADA Coordinator Stephanie Cook at [email protected] or 865-215-2034. For an English interpreter, contact Title VI Coordinator Tatia M. Harris at 865-215-2831.