Exciting Developments in Memphis: Northside Square is Coming Soon

Exciting Developments in Memphis: Northside Square is Coming Soon!

The city of Memphis is buzzing with excitement as big changes are underway in the Klondike neighborhood! The former Northside High School site on Vollintine Avenue, which sat neglected for years, is now the future home of the mixed-use development known as Northside Square. This ambitious project is poised to transform the community with new residential and commercial spaces, and it’s fully on track for a grand opening next year.

A Bright Future Ahead

Once overshadowed by its past, the Northside High School property is receiving a well-deserved makeover. After closing its doors in 2016 due to dwindling enrollment, the school building fell into disrepair. But the tide is turning! With a whopping $81 million investment, Northside Square is emerging as a vibrant hub for both living and commerce. The mixed-use development is expected to open its doors in December 2025, much to the delight of local residents.

The Heart of Klondike

This revitalized project is set to include 42 affordable housing units within the Klondike neighborhood, which has been struggling with poverty for years. Roshun Austin, the president and CEO of The Works Inc., the nonprofit behind the project, expressed her vision: a mixed-income neighborhood filled with economic opportunities. “I believe in the impossible!” she stated passionately during a recent media press conference. The Northside Square development is more than just bricks and mortar; it’s about hope and renewal.

A Community-Focused Design

What once resembled a somber wall of brick is now bright and welcoming! The renovation has opened up the structure significantly, with new large windows letting in natural light, a cleaned-up brick facade, and fresh skylights. Accessibility improvements such as ramps are in the works, making the space welcoming to everyone.

Sporting Opportunities and Local Involvement

Plans for the space include restoring the old gymnasium, an exciting initiative led by three former Memphis Grizzlies employees who envision hosting AAU and other basketball tournaments for the broader community. This clever blend of history and active engagement will provide a central community gathering spot while fostering the love of sports.

Financial Backing Fueling the Future

The financing for the residential portion of Northside Square has officially closed, thanks to several partners stepping up. Among them, the City of Memphis is contributing $2 million from the Memphis Affordable Housing Trust Fund, as well as assistance from First Horizon Bank, which is providing $3 million in senior debt. Additionally, there’s a 20-year PILOT (payment-in-lieu-of-taxes) agreement aimed at easing the tax burden on this new development, ensuring it only adds value to the city.

Maintaining History While Looking Ahead

One of the beautiful things about Northside Square is its commitment to honoring the past. The project plans to feature a Northside High Hall of Fame right at the main entrance, celebrating the school’s legacy while moving into a vibrant new chapter. The Works aims to guide future developments, keeping the local community involved in which direction their neighborhood takes.

Preserving Affordable Housing for All

There are currently around 600 affordable housing units scattered throughout Klondike, and as Austin aims to further develop the area, she emphasizes the need to ensure that these units remain available. “We’re not just focused on new arrivals; we want to welcome back those who left and provide housing for everyone,” she explained. This approach speaks to creating a balanced, thriving neighborhood built to welcome all incomes.

The development of Northside Square is indeed a story of hope, community revival, and a brighter future for Memphis. As we watch this project unfold over the next few years, there’s no doubt that the spirit of Klondike is being reignited!