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Knoxville’s Community Development Corporation (KCDC) has earned a top award from a national housing and community development organization for First Creek at Austin Phase 1.

The National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO) selected KCDC for an Award of Merit in the category of project design for the holistic approach to the neighborhood, including community input; preservation of culture; connection of the site to opportunities; open and walkable spaces; and trust built with residents and stakeholders well before construction started.

“First Creek at Austin has become a blueprint and innovative catalyst for neighborhood revitalization,” Ben Bentley, KCDC Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer, said. “The transformation of the neighborhood is apparent across the development through variations in housing styles, resident amenities, downtown access, and opportunities for employment, education, recreation, and connectivity. It’s also the city’s first mixed-income affordable housing community.”

NAHRO, which was established in 1933, is a membership organization of more than 26,000 housing and community development providers and professionals throughout the United States. NAHRO members create and manage affordable housing for low- and middle-income families, and support vibrant communities that enhance the quality of life for all.

First Creek at Austin is built on the site of the former Austin Homes, which was established in 1941 on nearly 23 acres. The redevelopment of the site followed months of dialogue with residents, stakeholders and community members in interviews and public meetings and included options for overall site use, street layouts, residential building types and green spaces.

Phase 1 opened in 2022 with 105 total units – 57 in one multifamily building and 48 spread across eight smaller townhome-style buildings. Phase 2 opened in 2024 with 180 one- to three-bedroom units.

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