Tennessee River: Source of Knoxville Development
Like so many cities, Knoxville developed on a waterway. Early maps of Knoxville show development radiating from the Tennessee River, the city’s primary means of transportation before railways developed. The electric trolley would come to Knoxville in 1890 (a good idea then and, some believe, now), expanding the city to around six square miles in area; before that, city development was limited to the distance one could walk or ride horseback. Later, the automobile would open the door to even more outward development shifting the city’s focus away from the Tennessee River that once supported its economy to the west, north, and east. The Tennessee River, seemingly, had outlived its usefulness.
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But as cities all over the United States began to undergo the stresses of sprawl, urban planners, in hopes of drawing people back to the city center, sought to identify the common features among cities whose downtowns remained vibrant. One commonality was water. Cities that have healthy, developed waterfronts maintain denser downtown populations, more vibrant downtown activities, and healthier economies as a result. Working with that information, many cities across America with neglected waterfronts are looking to revitalize by cleaning up and developing their shorelines.
To that end, Knoxville’s leadership joined with citizens, technical experts, developers and others to construct a plan to redevelop the south waterfront along the Tennessee River. Complete in 2005, the South Waterfront Action Plan spans 20 years with several phases of development. Currently, Phase I (0-5 years) is underway with plans to initiate a number of projects such as the construction of riverwalks, an amphitheater, a pedestrian bridge, and several area transportation improvements. When complete, several public parks will provide direct access, or “windows,” to the water; bike paths, sidewalks, street improvements, and parking areas will draw recreational crowds; and private residential, office, entertainment, and retail development will encourage people to move to the area, making it a true extension of the city rather than simply an outdoor recreation area.
Wondering about the other side of the river? The northern shore has received attention during the last decade with the construction of a two-mile riverside promenade and Volunteer Landing, a popular outdoor venue for game day gatherings, special events, or just playtime; several interactive fountains attract children during the summer. Fishing docks, park benches, a playground, and picnic tables dot the way attracting families, students, and downtown workers. Several restaurants are accessible via the riverwalk, and a pedestrian bridge provides safe crossing from downtown Knoxville to the park. All of this is tucked between and beneath Knoxville’s historic Gay Street and Henley Street bridges which add beauty and interest to the scenery while serving as subtle reminders of the good things happening on the other side.
