New construction of the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art in Downtown Memphis.
After a legal victory, construction of the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art’s new Downtown facility has resumed. A court dismissed most claims from a lawsuit aimed at halting the project, allowing the museum to proceed toward its anticipated 2026 opening. The new facility will be a vital cultural development, featuring expanded gallery space and a rooftop with river views, expected to attract 150,000 visitors annually and generate significant economic impact.
The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art has resumed construction of its new Downtown facility after a legal victory, paving the way for a significant cultural development in the city. Shelby County Chancellor Melanie Taylor Jefferson dismissed most claims in a lawsuit that sought to halt the museum’s construction, allowing the project to move forward toward its anticipated opening in 2026.
The lawsuit was initiated by Friends of Our Riverfront, a group including descendants of prominent historical figures such as Andrew Jackson and John Overton. They claimed that the city misinterpreted legal precedents dating back 200 years regarding the land known as “the promenade,” arguing that it should remain public space rather than being developed into a museum.
Following a temporary restraining order granted in September 2023, construction was initially halted. However, the order was contingent upon the plaintiffs posting a $1 million bond, which they did not fulfill. Consequently, as of June 2024, Chancellor Jefferson denied a temporary injunction against the museum, allowing work to recommence while noting the failure to pay the required bond.
The Brooks Museum’s Downtown move occurs at a time when Memphis is witnessing significant growth in its cultural institutions. In addition to the Brooks Museum, the Metal Museum has also reached notable construction milestones, further enhancing the local arts landscape. The new Brooks Museum is set to encompass 122,000 square feet with an expected influx of 150,000 visitors annually, generating an estimated economic impact of $100 million.
The new facility, located at the intersection of Front Street and the corners of Monroe and Union Avenue, is designed by the acclaimed architectural firms Herzog & de Meuron and Archimania. The innovative structure will feature expanded gallery space and is intended to be a versatile venue for various community events. Its modern design integrates public space, including a landscaped rooftop with views of the river, emphasizing accessibility and visibility of the riverfront.
Construction will utilize mass timber and be faced with Roman-style beige calcium silicate brick, creating a distinctive appearance in the urban environment. The museum aims to serve not only as an art venue but also as a community hub, reflecting the city’s artistic aspirations.
The Brooks Museum has a long-standing history, having been established in 1916 and previously located in Overton Park. Its transition to Downtown is characterized as one of the most ambitious developments since the establishment of the FedExForum. The construction is part of a broader vision to revitalize Downtown Memphis and enhance the cultural offerings in the area.
While construction is back on track, the Friends of Our Riverfront group plans to appeal Chancellor Jefferson’s decision regarding the construction and bond issues, signaling that the legal battles surrounding the museum’s development may continue. The outcome of these appeals could further affect the timeline or scope of the museum’s construction.
The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art’s Downtown location represents a transformative step for the local art scene, aiming to engage visitors and residents alike while fostering economic growth in the region. As preparations for its opening in 2026 advance, the museum stands to become a landmark in Memphis, celebrating artistic expression and community involvement.
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