Why is it important to save the Airplane Filling Station?

The Airplane Filling Station is a widely recognized local landmark and an important element in
Knox County’s historical and architectural landscape. Listed on the National Register of Historic
Places, it is the region’s sole extant example of mimetic architecture and is arguably the best
example of this roadside building style in the state. It is also significant reminder of the early
days of auto travel and a tribute to the beginnings of aviation.

The structure is also a valuable local asset. As communities become increasingly homogenized
due to “cookie-cutter” commercial and residential development, authentic and distinctive
elements become increasingly important. Distinctiveness plays an important role in maintaining
property values and attracting new employers and businesses. It is also hoped that restoration of
the structure will promote the redevelopment of the surrounding area, which currently has little
aesthetic or community value.

Does the Airplane preservation project have community support?

Efforts to preserve and restore the Airplane have enjoyed considerable community support. Since
these efforts began in 2003, more than $35,000 has been raised to stabilize and purchase the
structure. Approximately sixty percent of these funds have been raised through local grassroots
fundraising efforts.. The AFSPA web site, for example, lists more than 150 contributors, the vast
majority of which are local. More than $8,000 has been raised since October 2007 The project
has also received considerable in-kind support, including material from the local Home Depot
store, clean up assistance from Crown College students, professional services from local
architects and the East Tennessee Community Design Center, and technical assistance from the
University of Tennessee.

How will the restored structure be used and maintained?

Prior to restoration efforts, a graduate student at the University of Tennessee evaluated the site
and produced a study of possible uses. These findings were presented at a community meeting in
2004 where community discussed possible adaptive re-use. Given the physical constraints of the
lot and the structure, the best use for the building would be as a small office. Both commercial
and non-profit entities have expressed interest in occupying the restored building. Preferably, the
structure would house a community asset, such as the Beaver Creek Watershed Association.
However, numerous commercial clients have also expressed interest in renting the building.
Regardless of the tenant, the structure will remain under the ownership of the AFSPA, a local
and registered nonprofit. All revenues resulting from the site will be used to maintain and
improve the site.

How will the site be sustained?

From the outset, the goal of the AFSPA has been to make the structure a self-sustaining historic
site. Some proposed uses, such as a welcome center or museum, have been dismissed because
they would rely too heavily on external funding which might not be sustainable. Revenues from
the property billboard and rent, even modest payments from a nonprofit, should be more than
sufficient to maintain the structure well into the future. Excess revenue would be placed into an
interest bearing fund for long term sustainability.

How will funds currently being raised be used?

As stated, the goal of the AFSPA is to create a self-funded site. In order to create this site, we
must first ensure that the airplane is properly restored and structurally sound. Initial funds have
been used to purchase and stabilize the structure. These efforts have been accomplished and the
building is no longer at risk for demolition or collapse. The current goals are the restoration of
the structure while maintaining its historical and architectural integrity. Future funds will address
landscaping and be used to create on-site interpretation related to the building and its history.