Behind the Headlines Podcast · WKNO/The Daily Memphian

1607: How to keep interest in Downtown Memphis ahead of big projects

·31 min·2 clips

Shondell Ryan explains how a new contract with Block by Block will transform downtown Memphis's cleanliness and safety.

This episode of Behind the Headlines focuses on the current state and future of downtown Memphis. Host Eric Barnes of The Daily Memphian is joined by Shondell Ryan, President of the Downtown Memphis Commission, and reporter Bill Dries. Ryan highlights three major building redevelopments as positive signs: the Sheraton hotel, the Sterick Building, and 100 North Main. The DMC has a new contract with Block by Block to expand cleaning services with street sweepers and power washing. A primary challenge discussed is the visible homeless population, which the DMC addresses through biweekly wellness walks with partners like the Hospitality Hub. On Beale Street, a new long-term lease for the historic Daisy Theater promises renovations and a cultural focus. The Sterick Building is hosting pop-up events like a Juneteenth market to activate the space before full renovation. Large investments like the $55 million renovation of AutoZone Park and the new Memphis Museum are noted, but their completion timelines are long. To spur short-term activity, the DMC focuses on events like the July 4th celebration and daytime family activities on Beale Street. The prolonged shutdown of the downtown trolleys is cited as a significant economic and transportation setback, though rubber-wheeled trolleys have returned. Ryan explains that development incentives are only paid if a project is completed, so the city does not lose money on stalled proposals. The potential relocation of the county jail presents an opportunity to reimagine about 11 acres of prime downtown real estate. A new public safety command center at Peabody Place provides increased surveillance and coordination with police. The DMC uses lawsuits and code enforcement to pressure owners of blighted buildings to make improvements. Office worker attendance remains below pre-pandemic levels, which is a lingering issue from COVID-19. The DMC's role in the Sheraton hotel deal involves holding the property in a nonprofit entity during its pre-renovation design phase. The episode has a conversational and informational tone, blending optimistic updates with frank discussions of ongoing urban challenges. Listeners interested in Memphis civic development, urban planning, and local economic news will find this episode valuable. Those seeking a purely narrative story or national political analysis might find it too regionally focused.

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