The section of Riverside Drive between Georgia Avenue and Beale Street in Memphis is scheduled to reopen with new features designed to enhance access for both motorists and pedestrians, according to city officials. A public reopening event will take place on Sept. 8 at 8:30 a.m. at the intersection of Riverside Drive and Beale Street, with city leaders and community partners in attendance.
Key highlights from the updates include the conversion of the roadway into a two-lane avenue to reduce the velocity of traffic and enhance overall safety. New back-in angled parking also stands introduced to encourage safer exits and entries into Tom Lee Park along with other nearby riverfront attractions. In addition, the renovations aspire to make the area more pedestrian-friendly, promoting a seamless connection to the downtown's quintessential open-air zones.
"We’re building a city where streets don’t just serve cars, they serve people," Mayor Paul Young proclaimed, emphasizing the city's commitment to accessible public spaces that cater to a broader populace. "Riverside is now safer, more accessible, and more connected to the heartbeat of downtown. This is what it looks like when we say yes to public space that works for everyone," according to the City of Memphis.
Motorists are advised to proceed with caution, staying alert as they navigate the new parking layout and traffic flow.
