A Knoxville city park with public access to the Tennessee River will soon expand its boat access, thanks to a $237,245 grant from the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.

A third boat ramp is being installed at Gov. Ned McWherter Riverside Landing Park, along with a new service pier. The lighting at the ramp will be improved. Additionally, the parking area will include a new ADA-accessible parking space to accommodate a truck and boat trailer.  

Work will be underway at the 5-acre park, located under the South Knoxville Bridge at 1648 Riverside Drive, from Friday, Jan. 25, through mid-March, said Chip Barry, Knoxville Deputy Chief of Operations.  

The park is a favorite for fishing and water access to the Tennessee River. Walkers, runners and cyclists also use the park, accessing it from the James White Greenway. The park is a city facility on land leased from the State of Tennessee.

“This park has a lot of amenities with access to the greenway, and it also provides storage for the Knoxville Rowing Association,” Barry said. “It is one of several access points in the city on the river, and it tends to be busy.”

The City of Knoxville will be providing support through design, permitting and project management. The Public Building Authority will manage the construction project. 

“Winter is the river’s lowest level, so construction is being done now before water levels begin to rise in April,” Barry said. 

Only the boat ramps will be closed during the project. The park will remain open with access to the playground and fishing pier. 

Learn more about Governor Ned McWherter Park.