As COVID-19 has caused multiple city facilities to remain closed in Knoxville including the Knoxville Recreation Center as well as every city park, the closure has allowed for much needed work to be completed while areas remain off limits to residents. Knoxville Parks and Recreations Director Brandon Nemmers tells KNIA/KRLS News work that has been done at the Rec Center includes painting throughout the entire facility including the pool as well as new starting blocks installed and a new diving board will be installed soon as well. 

Nemmers says the city’s Dog Park is also 99 percent complete. He says there is still a need for some gravel work to be done but in total the new fence has been installed as well as a shade structure. Nemmers says the park has also been split into two areas, a large dog area and a small dog area. 

Although the facilities remain closed, Nemmers says the city is currently working on plans on how the facilities will reopen as well as what steps will continue to be taken to ensure the safety of every person using the facilities. To hear the complete interview with Nemmers, tune in to today’s Let’s Talk Knoxville.