From national expositions in the early 1900s that drew luminaries like Theodore Roosevelt and Helen Keller to serving as home to the Tennessee Valley Fair for the past 99 years, Chilhowee Park and Exposition Center has a rich and vibrant history.
The City of Knoxville is now seeking proposals from qualified and responsible firms or teams for the development of a site Master Plan that will guide the future strategic direction and development of approximately 135 total acres of City property.
This acreage includes Zoo Knoxville, encompassing 53 acres, as an adjoining property which already has an approved strategic plan, master plan, and related capital campaign plan in place.
The Chilhowee Park and Exposition Center contains about 81 acres and includes leasehold interests of The Muse, Tennessee Valley Fair, and Golden Gloves Charities.
The purpose of this RFP is to determine the most responsive and responsible firm qualified to provide planning services to assist the City in developing the future direction and growth of Chilhowee Park and Exposition Center in conjunction with the existing development plans of Zoo Knoxville, leaseholders, Magnolia Avenue corridor, and redevelopment of the Burlington neighborhood.
The development of the Master Plan will include extensive public input through engagement with Chilhowee Park stakeholders including current park tenants, residents of surrounding neighbors, public officials and event booking agents.
Proposals are due by Aug. 24, and the deadline for questions to be submitted in writing to the Purchasing Agent is Aug. 16.
The RFP is available on the City’s website at
knoxvilletn.gov/bids.