Knoxville’s $150 Million Science Museum Called Off

Proposed Knoxville Science Museum (Courtesy: City of Knoxville)

Knoxville’s $150 Million Science Museum Called Off

Posted on April 11, 2025

Knoxville, TN (WOKI) The City of Knoxville says the Knoxville Science Museum project has been called off.

The original $150 million Science Museum funding and endowment project was announced at the State of the City Address in 2018.

The City of Knoxville was recently informed that Jim Clayton is withdrawing his donation and commitment to build a science and discovery museum at the former safety building property on Hill Avenue.

The initial plans of the center included exhibit, educational, event, and meeting spaces, dining and connections to Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness.

Mayor Indya Kincannon says she’s disappointed in Mr. Clayton’s decision but says he will be conveying the land back to the city once the demolition and site grading work is complete on the site.

Proposed Knoxville Science Museum (Courtesy: City of Knoxville)

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