In a significant development for urban green spaces, Gulf & Ohio Railways has initiated the process to transform a 3.8-mile rail line into a public trail. Filed for abandonment in mid-December, the rail line stretches from Chapman Highway to Ijams Nature Center in South Knoxville, as revealed in a City of Knoxville announcement. Following the Surface Transportation Board’s approval, the company will begin removing the tracks and ties to make way for the construction of the trail.
An Art Walk extending for 1.5 miles is also planned, thanks to a collaboration with Legacy Parks Foundation. Gulf & Ohio's chairman Pete Claussen commented on the project's potential, stating, "As the area has changed, rail traffic has declined, we saw this unique opportunity for a rail-to-trail project within sight of the City County Building, extending all the way to Meade’s Quarry at Ijams Nature Center." Claussen further elucidated the company's vision for the project, noting its ability to help maintain Knoxville's reputation as a premier place to live.
The planned trail promises a balanced mixture of urban and wilderness elements, cozying up against eateries and breweries along Sevier Avenue, while also snaking through an impressive tunnel and a stunning canyon, supported by two elevated bridges. This transformation has been baking for nine years, where initially, Legacy Parks planned to develop a trail running alongside the rail line.
According to Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon, making such infrastructural strides signifies the city's commitment to enhancing connectivity and creating a vibrant south Knoxville. "The trail’s proximity to restaurants, businesses and Ijams Nature Center will also help increase foot traffic and boost business in the area," Kincannon told the City of Knoxville. Local businesses and community members have welcomed the development, with Janice Tocher, Co-Chair of South Knoxville Neighborhood & Business Coalition, expressing excitement about the trail becoming a new conduit for visitors to experience the charm south of the river.
To enhance the trail's appeal, Legacy Parks announced earlier this year a $1 million donation from the Lawson Family Foundation to establish an Art Walk between Kerns Food Hall and the Island Home Park neighborhood. This Art Walk aims to integrate artistic expression seamlessly with outdoor experiences. Carol Evans, Executive Director of Legacy Parks, highlighted the intention behind this move: "This Art Walk will promote the power of art as integral to – and not separate from – other experiences. It will celebrate both the incredible creative talent we have in this community as well as the exceptional outdoor amenities."
