MARYVILLE, Tenn. — The old armory on Ellis Avenue in Maryville will be rebuilt as a restaurant and entertainment space called "The Armory," according to a release.
The restaurant/ bar/entertainment venue is expected to open in late Summer 2024, according to a release.
The Armory will feature a 4,500-square-foot rooftop deck and a 1,000-square-foot patio – plus six bowling lanes, officials said.
Officials said it represents around $10 million of investments in the city and will create 120 to 150 new jobs.
Bart and Marti Fricks of Knoxville will operate the venue, according to a release. Bart Fricks currently runs the popular Jaboni’s Pizzeria locations in Maryville and Knoxville. He previously served as the chief operating officer for another local restaurant chain and was formerly a key member of Ruby Tuesday's.
The armory stood on Ellis Avenue for decades before it was repurposed into several types of businesses over the years, including a roller-skating rink and salvage business. The building was then demolished in 2021.
The new building will pay homage to the old structure but include a mix of indoor and outdoor spaces.
Bart Fricks said he estimates the venue will employ roughly 150 people when it's fully open and operating.