New Urban Greenway Trail Planned for Knoxville

News Summary

Knoxville is set to transform an abandoned rail line into an urban greenway trail, connecting Chapman Highway with Ijams Nature Center. This ambitious rail-to-trail project will feature an ‘Art Walk,’ local artwork, and access to numerous restaurants along Sevier Avenue. Supported by a $1 million donation, the project aims to enhance outdoor exploration and community engagement. With ongoing plans for future trails, Knoxville is heading towards a greener future.

Exciting New Urban Greenway Trail Coming to Knoxville!

Knoxville is buzzing with excitement as the city has officially announced plans to transform an abandoned rail line in South Knoxville into a fantastic new trail! This rail-to-trail project will not only beautify the area, but it will also offer residents and visitors a wonderful way to explore the great outdoors right in the heart of the city.

What’s the Story?

In mid-December, Gulf and Ohio Railways applied to abandon a 3.8-mile rail line, which will soon be handed over to the city for this exciting greenway project. The proposed trail aims to connect Chapman Highway to the beautiful Ijams Nature Center, making it easier than ever to access nature and enjoy the stunning landscapes Knoxville has to offer.

All About the Adventure

If you love a good adventure, get ready because this trail promises to be action-packed! One of the main highlights will be a 1.5-mile “Art Walk” developed by the Legacy Parks Foundation. This trail section will feature local art installations and showcase the creativity of Knoxville’s talented artists, promising to make your stroll truly engaging.

But that’s not all! The trail will meander through urban and natural landscapes, including a tunnel, canyon, and even two elevated bridges. Can you imagine walking across those bridges and taking in the views? Plus, for those who enjoy the local foodie scene, the trail will pass by several restaurants and breweries along Sevier Avenue, offering the perfect pit stops for a well-deserved bite or a refreshing drink!

Support from the Community

In a generous move, the Legacy Parks Foundation has been collaborating with Gulf and Ohio Railways for about nine years on this trail project. Recently, they received a stunning $1 million donation from the Lawson Family Foundation to support the “Art Walk” portion. With this backing, the team is confident about bringing their creative vision to life.

Next Steps: What Happens Now?

As of now, the project is still in the concept design phase, but construction will begin once the project is fully funded. After the abandonment approval from the railways, there’s a one-year window to develop a rail-to-trail plan. People are strongly advocating for this new trail, as it will add so much life to the area.

Looking Forward to More Trails

Smoky Mountain Railroad route, which has been in the works since 1967. Additionally, volunteers from the Smoky Mountains Hiking Club are working to clear a path among trees along the old rail bed for future trails. How exciting it would be to eventually link downtown Knoxville to Seymour via this beautiful new trail!

Maintaining Nature’s Beauty

As plans unfold, there are still some considerations to tackle regarding land ownership and right-of-way for the Smoky Mountain trail project. Local residents have shown support for the project, as long as natural barriers are preserved. It’s all about keeping Knoxville’s beauty intact while expanding access to its incredible outdoor amenities!

Additionally, the city is also progressing on developing a new walking trail in Charter Doyle Park near the old rail line, further enhancing the green space in this vibrant community.

Conclusion

Ultimately, this rail-to-trail project and potential new trails are a fantastic step forward for Knoxville. The city is focused on connecting its parks and greenways, offering everyone a chance to enjoy the outdoors. So keep your sneakers ready and your cameras charged, because Knoxville is heading towards a greener and more artistic future!