x
Breaking News
More () »

Gay Street closure prompts downtown party

Because every once in a while, it just feels good to dance in the streets.

Just because a road is closed to cars doesn't mean it's closed to people.

Part of South Gay Street in downtown Knoxville is closed for some road renovations.

From West Summit Hill to Union Avenue, no cars can drive through at least August while crews work on the crosswalks.

However, there's no stopping people from checking out Knoxville from a literal street view, as behind the orange barricades, a whole new concrete playground emerges.

Road closures are usually seen as a nuisance to drivers, but to the pedestrians on South Gay Street, it's finally a chance to safely play in the streets.

"Whenever you're just like walking on the streets it's just like weird because you're so used to cars being there or like being in a car on the street," said downtown visitor Ellie Lewis.

Countless people are embracing the room to play and hope to get that perfect picture of downtown Knoxville.

"It's a great chance to take a photo with the Tennessee Theatre sign in the background," said Knoxville resident Dana Hart.

Local businesses are getting in on the fun, too.

Downtown Grill and Brewery put out cornhole sets Saturday morning.

If you come at the right time, you can catch foosball games with Knoxville FoosVol right in the middle of the street.

"Everyone I talk to is saying, 'isn't this great,'" said Marshall Peterson.

Peterson has lived on Gay Street for 12 years.

Peterson said since the road closed earlier this month, he's noticed a new life come to downtown Knoxville, even if some pedestrians were a little hesitant to take that first step.

"It's kind of amusing," said Peterson. "Some of the people are a little apprehensive like they shouldn't be walking in the middle of the street."

Peterson said he wishes this road closure was permanent.

"Turn it into a public area, communal area, similar to Market Square," said Peterson.

He's not the only one thinking that way

"I would love it," said Hart. "I don't know how that would impact traffic downtown during the week, but it would be great for it to be closed at least on the weekends."

Every once in a while, it just feels good to dance in the streets.

Before You Leave, Check This Out