KNOXVILLE — Iron Forge Brewing Company conducted a ribbon-cutting ceremony on a Thursday afternoon. The company is located outside Covenant Health Park, near the third base gate. Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon stated that the updated investment estimate for the ballpark development is $1 billion.
Knoxville Smokies owner Randy Boyd invited Jackie Griffin to bring her restaurant to the stadium district. Knox County Commissioner Damon Rawls recalled that the stadium site was previously an undeveloped lot. Boyd said, "We had this field that we created, and we thought if we build it, they'll come. They're coming."
Iron Forge Brewing Company founder Audrei Dabul relocated to Knoxville from Brazil eight years prior to the opening event. Audrei Dabul said, "It's more than beer for us. For us, it's something to help the community, grow the community, be the catalyst to start something beautiful." Dabul said, "I feel welcome here. I feel part of this. We're going to continue growing with Knoxville." The company produces its beer in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains.