Check Out the New Developments in Johnson City, TN

Mixed-use projects are reusing infrastructure to blend historic character with new purpose.

By Val Hunt Beerbower on March 25, 2024

Johnson City Aerial Photography

Johnson City has many charming attributes of a smaller city, in addition to hot projects keeping the development scene active and the streets of downtown vibrant and thriving. Here’s a look at the new developments in Johnson City.

Mixed-Use Project Brings Lofty Goals

Two local developers are teaming up to transform a former JCPenney building into a new mixed-use project called The Henry On Main. 

Universal Development and Construction (UDC) and Mitch Cox Cos. are revamping this 100,000-square-foot property into 32 one-, two- and three-bedroom residential lofts. The project also includes approximately 22,000 square feet of commercial space for lease. Businesses occupying the building include Vibes Nail and Lotion Bar and Levels Barbershop. 

“The apartments will have all the finishes you’d expect in downtown living, like high-volume ceilings, large windows, exposed brick and beautifully exposed wood beams,” says Shane Abraham, founder, president and CEO of UDC. “We always try to provide the best value in the market in any project we undertake. This includes the price point, finishes, amenities and location.”

Renovations: A Labor of Love 

Renovating a property that’s more than 100 years old has challenges, but UDC is up to the task. Founded in 1998, UDC is a fully integrated real estate development company specializing in the development, construction and management of multifamily communities. The company has developed more than 4,000 multifamily homes in conjunction with Mitch Cox Cos,. in East Tennessee, Western North Carolina and Western South Carolina, with more than 1,000 in the development pipeline. 

Projects like The Henry are a source of pride for Abraham because he’s directly contributing to his hometown’s renaissance. 

“I was born and raised in Johnson City and have seen downtown Johnson City change greatly,” Abraham says. “What was once a gritty, blighted and often flooded part of town has now evolved into a wonderful area with great parks and new businesses. New residence options are coming online as well, like The Henry, and we’re proud to see this project come to completion.” 

Johnson City Is a Welcoming Community 

Small business owners are also benefiting from the new developments in Johnson City.

Sanjay Bakshi of Baba Enterprise will bring the first food hall to the region in 2024. The project is part of a renovation of a 100-year-old, 21,000-square-foot building that was formerly a tobacco warehouse. Bakshi worked his way up and identified the region as a welcoming community with good investment opportunities, including this food hall, which will offer seven to 10 local chefs incubation space for their restaurant concepts. 

“We have lots of local flavor in restaurants and shops, with a balance of entrepreneurs and a variety of major chains,” Abraham says. “Johnson City’s success can also be attributed to our high-quality educational institutions, like East Tennessee State University and Milligan University.” 

Abraham cites many other factors that contribute to the ongoing success of new developments in Johnson City. For instance, local government, including the planning department, public works and everything in between, is “business-friendly.” 

He also credits the significance of living in a community with a commitment to quality of life, which prioritizes outdoor activities and cultural and historical activities. A diverse economy also keeps the region thriving. 

Vision for the Future 

UDC isn’t stopping at The Henry On Main. Abraham says his company is planning another residential development in the area. 

Universal at Mountain View is scheduled for the second quarter of 2024. The development will be a 320-unit residential neighborhood that will include one-, two- and three-bedroom apartment, townhome and single-family rental options in North Johnson City. 

“That will give residents great proximity to all kinds of shopping and dining options as well,” Abraham says. 

There are still many more projects like the former JCPenney that could use new life. Abraham says, even though the work’s not done yet, they’re making an impact. 

“Johnson City is a proactive and progressive city that is finding itself with a national spotlight on it,” he says. “We’re proud to be a small part of helping this city grow.”