Gulf & Ohio Railways announced that it has applied for abandonment of its 3.8-mile rail line in South Knoxville with the intent of offering the rail line property to the City of Knoxville and Legacy Parks Foundation for a unique greenway project that will run from Chapman Highway to Ijams Nature Center.

This rail-to-trail conversion will also feature a 1.5-mile Art Walk created by Legacy Parks Foundation. 

“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. Gulf & Ohio is contributing the property to help Knoxville continue to be one of best places to live in America,” said Pete Claussen, Gulf & Ohio Railways chairman. 

Legacy Parks has been coordinating with Gulf & Ohio Railways for the past nine years on a trail that would parallel the tracks, a “rail with trail.” This “rail to trail” option now offered by Gulf & Ohio will allow the tracks to be removed and a hard surface trail to be constructed.  The trail will be uniquely urban and wilderness – bordering the restaurants and breweries along Sevier Avenue, traveling through a captivating tunnel and gorgeous canyon and over two elevated bridges.

Gulf & Ohio began the process by filing for abandonment of the rail line in mid-December. Following approval by the Surface Transportation Board (STB), they will remove the track and railroad ties and donate the property to the City of Knoxville to construct the trail. The STB allows a year for the development of a rail-to-trail plan.

“We are so excited to be able to take this project to the next level,” said Mayor Indya Kincannon. “Creating this trail and making this a part of our expansive greenway system will help increase connectivity in our City and truly make this another must-see destination in 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. This unique trail is a great complement to all the City’s investments in South Knoxville and is a win-win for residents and visitors, alike.”

South Knoxville businesses and residents echo this observation.

“We are delighted that South Knoxville is leading the way with the first art trail in Knoxville thanks to the vision of Legacy Parks and others. This is sure to be a well-used trail and will bring visitors to experience our lovely area south of the river. This announcement is particularly exciting because the trail will be more accessible for all to enjoy,” stated Janice Tocher, Co-Chair of South Knoxville Neighborhood & Business Coalition.

Earlier this year, Legacy Parks announced a $1 million gift from the Lawson Family Foundation for an Art Walk on the trail, concentrated between Kerns Food Hall and Island Home Park neighborhood. The Art Walk will showcase unique, diverse and engaging art installations, creating a world-class cultural and recreational destination. 

“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,” Carol Evans, Executive Director of Legacy Parks, explained. 

Legacy Parks Foundation is an East Tennessee nonprofit that works to conserve our natural resources, create public places, and connect communities. To date, Legacy Parks has invested more than $11 million in parks, trails and water access in East Tennessee.