North Memphis, August 16, 2025
News Summary
The Memphis and Shelby County Community Redevelopment Agency is seeking public feedback to guide the transformation of the historic Brick Church into a community hub. An open house was held to collect ideas from residents after the withdrawal of Hattiloo Theatre’s plans for the site. The CRA emphasizes the importance of community engagement in shaping the future of this historic building.
Memphis Community Redevelopment Agency Seeks Public Input for Historic Brick Church Transformation
The Memphis and Shelby County Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) is looking for community feedback as it plans to convert the historic Brick Church located at 299 Chelsea Ave. in the Uptown section of North Memphis into a community hub. The church, which currently features chipped plaster, peeling walls, creaking wood, and yellow danger tape, is in urgent need of renovation.
On August 15, the CRA hosted an open house specifically designed to collect input from community members and potential developers regarding the future use of the property. This event comes in the wake of the Hattiloo Theatre’s decision to withdraw its plans to utilize the Brick Church. The CRA sees this as an opportunity to reshape the future of the building based on community needs and desires.
According to the CRA director of community and economic revitalization, community input is essential for guiding the redevelopment efforts. By engaging local residents, the agency hopes to ensure that the historic property serves a purpose that resonates with the surrounding community.
Community Engagement Efforts
During the open house, various stakeholders were encouraged to share their ideas and vision for the Brick Church. This engagement is part of a broader initiative aimed at fostering a sense of ownership and inclusion among residents in North Memphis. The CRA is focused on leveraging the rich history of the site while also addressing contemporary community needs.
The CRA has indicated that ideas generated from this feedback will be critical in shaping the future design and function of the site. The CRA’s openness to community suggestions illustrates a commitment to transparency and collaboration in decision-making processes related to historic properties in Memphis.
Background on the Brick Church
The Brick Church has long been a significant landmark in the North Memphis area. Its historical importance is underscored by its distinctive architecture and role within the community. However, years of neglect and weathering have left the building in a deteriorated state. The CRA’s plans for redevelopment aim not only to restore the building but also to enhance its value as a cultural and social gathering place for residents.
The agency believes that the revitalization of the Brick Church can contribute positively to the overall development of the Uptown neighborhood, improving both its aesthetic appeal and community functionality. Through continued dialogue with the community, the CRA hopes to foster an environment where residents feel empowered to influence the future of their neighborhoods.
Conclusion
The solicitation of public input by the CRA marks a critical step in ensuring that the redevelopment of the Brick Church is aligned with the aspirations and needs of the local community. As the plans progress, ongoing community engagement will be pivotal in transforming this historic site into a vibrant hub for the North Memphis area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the location of the Brick Church?
The Brick Church is located at 299 Chelsea Ave. in the Uptown section of North Memphis.
What condition is the church currently in?
The church exhibits chipped plaster, peeling walls, creaking wood, and is marked with yellow danger tape, indicating that it requires significant renovations.
What is the purpose of the recent open house hosted by the CRA?
The open house was held to gather feedback from community members and developers about the future use of the Brick Church after the withdrawal of Hattiloo Theatre’s plans to utilize the property.
Why is community input important for the redevelopment plans?
Community input is crucial for guiding redevelopment efforts, ensuring that the final use of the property aligns with the desires and needs of local residents.
What are the CRA’s goals for the Brick Church redevelopment?
The CRA aims to transform the Brick Church into a community hub while preserving its historical significance and enhancing its role within the North Memphis neighborhood.
Key Features of the Brick Church Redevelopment
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | 299 Chelsea Ave., North Memphis, Uptown section |
| Current Condition | Chipped plaster, peeling walls, creaking wood, yellow danger tape |
| Purpose of Open House | Gather community feedback post Hattiloo Theatre’s withdrawal |
| Community Engagement | Encouraging local input to guide redevelopment efforts |
| CRA Goals | Transform Brick Church into a community hub while preserving its historical importance |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Hattiloo Theatre Halts Plans for Community Theatre in Memphis
Additional Resources
- Daily Memphian: Historic Memphis Brick Church Faces Uncertain Future
- Wikipedia: Community redevelopment
- Action News 5: We the People: The Birth of Beale Street
- Google Search: Beale Street Memphis
- Daily Memphian: The Early Word – Memphis Grizzlies Set the Dates
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Memphis, Tennessee
- Baptist News: Mandrell to Leave Lifeway for Memphis Pastorate
- Google News: Memphis Community Redevelopment
- Nashville Post: Brick Church Pike Site Could Land 488 Residences
- Google Scholar: Brick Church Memphis
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
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