The Knoxville City Council has greenlit a transformative project for South Knoxville, where an old railroad is poised to become a new venue for art and outdoor activity. The council's unanimous decision will see a 3.8-mile stretch of rail line given new life as a rail-to-trail greenway and a 1.5-mile art walk, which will thread between Chapman Highway and Ijams Nature Center. The arrangement, a partnership with Knoxville & Holston River Railroad and Legacy Parks Foundation, includes federal rail banking provisions and anticipates construction to start before year-end, as per WVLT.
According to an update from WATE, the trail's design integrates local art, with inclusion of murals and sculptures, thanks to a $1 million donation from the Lawson Family Foundation. It's expected to break ground in late fall and welcome visitors by Fall 2026. "This trail conversion will enhance our existing greenway system, increase connectivity, and become another outdoor destination in Knoxville," Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon said, affirming its potential to invigorate the city and its natural ties to the South Knoxville businesses and Ijams Nature Center.
Further investments into city infrastructure were reviewed at the council meeting, including a collaborative financial effort for the Gay St. Bridge, detailed by WBIR. The city seeks to secure $800,000 in federal funds, matched with $200,000 of its own, for an assessment to repair or replace the significant bridge currently closed to vehicular traffic. Councilmembers cast a unanimous vote to pursue this grant from the Federal Highway Administration.
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding these developments, not without its conflicts, the project is, with a group of neighbors challenging the trail expansion, citing century-old land rights deals. Vice Mayor Tommy Smith remains hopeful, telling development team members present at the council meeting, as reported by WBIR, "The entire community in South Knoxville is waiting on this," and with Mayor Indya Kincannon emphasizing the project's boon to the Urban Wilderness, contributing a rich array of recreational and cultural prospects to the community.
