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On Monday, October 28, Amazon officially cut the ribbon on its nearly 220,000-square-foot facility in Knoxville. Amazon’s new ”last mile” facility will have the capability to deliver hundreds of thousands of customers orders every day. Unlike the other stages of the journey, where large quantities are moved together, last mile delivery breaks freight shipment out into individual customer orders. Packages are transported in last mile vehicles, like Amazon’s delivery vans, that follow specific routes to ensure speed and efficiency.
Amazon’s project encouraged the redevelopment of what was formerly East Towne Mall.
“It’s so exciting and positive to see, instead of just an empty void, a positive place that shows great economic value to our community,” said City of Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon. “So thanks to Amazon, this piece of property is going to be bustling with activity once again, and this is good news for their customers, but it’s also really good news for our city.”
DNA6 will employ over 250 employees. In addition, twelve delivery service partners have been contracted to mobilize 700 delivery drivers. Starting pay for DNA6 employees is $18.50 per hour, and most employees receive access to benefits starting their first day.
“Knox County is a great place to do business,” said Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs. “One of the many reasons why is our central location. Conveniently located at the intersection of I-75 and I-40, the establishment of this facility will make it easier for customers to receive their packages even faster.”
DNA6 is the first delivery station in the Knoxville area to deploy electric delivery vehicles (EDVs). There are currently more than 80 custom EDVs operating out of the delivery station in Knoxville – and this is just the beginning. The site has the ability to grow to over 100 EDVs with the current charging capacity.
“The DNA6 delivery station will provide solid employment opportunities for those in East Knox County and beyond,” said Doug Lawyer, Knoxville Chamber Vice President of Economic Development. “We are thankful for Amazon’s investment in our community.”
