KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) — Vector Hospitality, the developer behind a series of upcoming hotels in downtown Knoxville, has announced the purchase of the property formerly occupied by Merchants of Beer in the Old City. This move marks the addition of a third hotel to the developer’s downtown plans, following the earlier announcement of two other hotels under development in the area.
The historic bar, known for its diner-style layout and local significance, was sold on Tuesday, with Vector purchasing the site to build a Moxy by Marriott hotel. The Moxy brand, known for catering to younger, more adventurous travelers, is expected to bring a vibrant and modern flair to the area. The hotel chain’s website highlights its appeal to modern travelers, with images depicting guests enjoying drinks and vacation-themed activities.
Georgia Robertson, Director of Operations for Vector Hospitality, spoke to WVLT News about the project’s commitment to honoring the neighborhood’s legacy. “We know how important of a space it was to the community, and we want to fit in,” Robertson said. “We want our neighbors to be proud of what we build.”
While the announcement has been met with enthusiasm by some in the community, others are voicing concerns. Ashton Byrne, director of Old City Med Spa, expressed optimism about the increased foot traffic the new hotel could bring but raised concerns about parking. “It’s definitely big news down here; we’re excited to have people in town, more foot traffic,” Byrne said. “Hopefully, it’ll be really good for the business, but we’re definitely talking about the parking. Where everyone is going to park, that’s already an issue. Hopefully it doesn’t make costs go up too high.”
Parking remains a hot topic in the Old City and across downtown Knoxville, where space is limited and demand is high. The lot purchased by Vector includes more than a dozen parking spots that were previously used by the neighborhood.
Adding to the tension, the city of Knoxville implemented new parking enforcement measures earlier this week, raising fines for illegal parking and expanding the criteria under which vehicles can be towed and impounded. With growing concerns about parking availability, the community remains divided on the impact of the new hotel development.
As the Moxy hotel project moves forward, local business owners and residents will be closely watching its effects on the area’s vibrant culture and infrastructure.
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