9:24 a.m. September 26, 2014
University Commons officially opens

The grand opening of University Commons included remarks and support from Knoxville Mayor Madeline Rogero, Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett, along with representatives from Walmart, Publix and the University of Tennessee-Knoxville.

KNOXVILLE - University Commons, Knoxville’s first urban, vertical retail center, celebrated its official and much anticipated grand opening on Thursday, September 25.

Hosted by University Commons developers, CHM, LLC, the celebration and media event included remarks and support from Knoxville Mayor Madeline Rogero, Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett, along with representatives from Walmart, Publix and the University of Tennessee-Knoxville.

Members of the Weston Fulton family were also in attendance with Fulton’s grandson, Jay Talley speaking on behalf of the family. Weston Fulton was the founder of Fulton Bellows, a metal workings and foundry operation, which started manufacturing in 1917. University Commons was developed on the former Fulton Bellows manufacturing site and has revived an area that was dormant since the factory closed in 2005.

“This is a special day for our entire team and a long list of supporters as well as the local community,” said Mike McGuffin, a partner with CHM, LLC. “It seems like yesterday that we first announced this project, just two and a half years ago, and seeing our vision come to fruition, and so quickly, is incredibly exciting. We’re proud to play a role in enhancing this area of Cumberland Avenue while adding some much needed grocery and retail options to the downtown and University of Tennessee community.”

Adding to the excitement, the developers of University Commons also announced that national retailer, PetSmart has been added to the center’s list of tenants which includes its two anchors, Walmart and Publix, as well as smaller retailers including VolShop, Fresh to Order, Blush Boutique, Jersey Mike’s Subs, and Great Clips.

For more information on University Commons, visit www.shopuniversitycommons.com.

Published September 26, 2014