A building that UT has owned since 1965 but has sat empty for nearly 2 years is set to be demolished.
The General Neyland House, located at 2111 Terrace Avenue, has been vacant for more than 19 months, according to the University of Tennessee. It was built in the 1930s.
At one point in time, the Fort Sanders home was occupied by the former University of Tennessee football coach Gen. Robert Neyland. He and his wife lived there during some of his time as head coach.
According to the University of Tennessee Campus Heritage Plan, the home consists of a two-story brick building with a three-bay symmetrical facade. It features a projecting gable center portico, one over one window, and shed dormer windows. It is a key contributor to the architectural diversity of the neighborhood.
UT said the University's Department of Environmental Health and Safety occupied the house until May 10, 2016, but relocated due to its deteriorating conditions. The department now occupies space in East Stadium Hall along Tee Martin Drive.
An exact date to take down the Terrace Avenue home has not been set.
"We are working with the nearby homeowner to address any concerns related to the demolition plans and will continue to communicate plans with them moving forward," UT spokesperson Tyra E. Haag said.
As with all properties older than 50 years old, UT said they must follow a state process that requires the University to assess the significance of the structure, consult with the Tennessee Historical Commission and then receive approval of the State Building Commission for the demolition. The SBC approved the demolition in late July 2016, according to the University of Tennessee.
"The excessive cost to renovate this structure is not a prudent use of funds when the end result does not meet or provide the program needs of the campus," Haag said. "From an occupancy standpoint, it is unacceptable, and we cannot assign anyone to the building."
Several buildings at the University of Tennessee are on the National Register of Historic Places, including Ayres Hall and the Tyson Alumni House.
The University of Tennessee said it plans to optimize the use of its existing land to accommodate the growing needs of the campus within its institutional zone while recognizing the land constraints it has with the Tennessee River, major highways, downtown and the Fort Sanders neighborhood and Cumberland Avenue business district.
WBIR Channel 10 has not heard back on a specific timeframe for the demolition.
