Strategic Initiatives
Strategic Initiatives, is HCD’s in-house developer for construction/redevelopment projects, particularly those projects which support economic development and catalytic community investments.
Historic Melrose Revitalization Project
Once vacant for 40 years, this beautiful building was saved from demolition by dedicated community members. In 2018, it was reactivated through community efforts. In 2021, a $10M investment from Accelerate Memphis propelled the redevelopment of Historic Melrose. A testament to community power and historic resilience, its opening is scheduled for 2024!
Southwest Twin
Established in 1956 as Memphis' second-ever drive-in, the Southwest Twin Drive-In, formerly the 61 Drive-In, expanded to include a second screen under Malco Theatres' ownership. With a capacity for 600 cars, it thrived until its closure in 2001. In 2022, responding to community concerns, the City of Memphis and Shelby County pledged $1 million each to reactivate and revitalize this historic site.
Liberty Park
The Fairgrounds site, now renamed as Liberty Park, includes the construction of the Memphis Sports & Events Center (for indoor sports) and an 18-acre mixed-use development including retail, food and beverage, hospitality, office, multi-family residences, and family entertainment.
Past Projects
Oversaw HCD’s contribution of funds to Crosstown Concourse, the Overton Park Garage, Pyramid redevelopment to Bass Pro Shops among many other projects over the years. Most recently:
Cossitt Library Renovation
The ongoing $6.5 million renovation of Memphis’s first public library, originally opened in 1893.
Raleigh Springs Civic Center
The Raleigh Springs Civic Center is a reimagining of the site of the historic Raleigh Springs Mall. Once a staple of the Raleigh community, the space is now a multifunctional epicenter that the residents can utilize and enjoy.
Other HCD Initiatives
Memphis Heritage Trail
Over sixty-five percent of Memphians are Black. However, until recently there was little evidence of their contributions to the city. The Memphis Heritage Trail (MHT) recognizes the significant bestowals of African Americans who helped shape Memphis rich business, cultural, and musical heritage. The trail consists of four loops: civil rights, entertainment, commerce, and residential. Goals: 1) Promote cultural assets and celebrate contributions of Memphis through physical and visible reminders of history; 2) Create a positive sense of place by promoting neighborhood pride and engaging residents. 3) Develop cultural tourism as a mechanism for economic development.
Groundbreakers
Groundbreakers is an initiative by the City of Memphis to connect and bring developer partners to the table to share in our vision to make Memphis a thriving city - overflowing with equitable opportunities and strong neighborhoods. This initiative is centered around collaboration with private and public partners to activate vacant properties as seeds to bring our vision for Memphis to life. We welcome nonprofit, for profit, and institutional developers that are local or national.