The historic Phoenix Building was demolished at the end of 2023, and since then its footprint has remained empty, but Hopkinsville Mayor J.R. Knight says the city is working toward redeveloping the space.
The Phoenix Building was one of the earliest commercial buildings in Hopkinsville, being constructed in the heart of downtown in 1812. The building was demolished after it became vacant and dilapidated.
Knight recently appeared on WHOP and shared that the city has acquired that Phoenix Building’s lot. Knight says the city now owns the vacant buildings and lots from the Print Shop to Boyd’s Boutique along with the corner of South Main and East 9th Streets.
Knight says they are still tossing around development ideas such as making the empty lot a green space or constructing a retail building that has a residential upper level, but before construction begins, the city is seeking the public’s input.
Knight says developing those vacant lots and buildings will be an important step in moving downtown forward.