Main Street Rebuild project receives Award for Excellence
The City of Kingsport has been selected to receive an award for Excellence in Economic and Community Development for the Main Street Rebuild project.
The award will be presented to city officials on Aug. 5 at the 85th Annual Conference of the Tennessee Municipal League (TML) held at the Chattanooga Convention Center.
Kingsport’s $20 million Main Street Rebuild project began in November 2022 with a comprehensive plan to replace aging water, sewer, and stormwater systems; to place overhead utilities underground; and to stabilize the failing roadway foundation.
In addition to these critical infrastructure upgrades, city officials felt this would be an ideal time to incorporate streetscape enhancements to make downtown more inviting and accessible for residents and visitors.
“A dramatic overhaul of Kingsport’s Main Street has seen the improvement of critical utilities and roadways, revitalized downtown business and economic development, and has drawn new pedestrian traffic through increased safety and accessibility,” according to a press release from the TML. “For this dedicated effort to simultaneously improve infrastructure and downtown economic development, TML is proud to present the City of Kingsport with (this award).”
Supported by 80% funding from state and federal sources, the project has improved utility services as well as aesthetics in the form of new landscaping, decorative brick crosswalks, and pedestrian-friendly features to make the environment more inviting and accessible.
By updating the roadway, utilities, and streetscaping in one comprehensive project, the city improved efficiency of the project, saved taxpayer funds, and enhanced the delivery and reliability of vital utility services to the Main Street community. The utility modernization also prevents expensive emergency repairs and minimizes the need for future maintenance.
Each year the Tennessee Municipal League honors cities throughout the state for overall excellence, improvement, specific outstanding programs, or department accomplishments. In addition to Kingsport, award winners for 2025 include Chattanooga, Cleveland, Farragut, Franklin, Gatlinburg, Greeneville, Jackson and Pulaski.
Founded in 1940 and based in Nashville, the Tennessee Municipal League serves as the voice of and advocate for Tennessee’s 345 towns and cities.
