Sharp’s Ridge Playspace and Adaptive Trails Opens
Legacy Parks Foundation cut the ribbon to open the Sharp’s Ridge playspace and adaptive trails, creating the first all-access trail in our region designed specifically to accommodate users with disabilities. The project was funded by a grant from the Trinity Health Foundation. The new play area and trails are located on the 42-acres on the north side of Sharp’s Ridge, on land that was donated to the Foundation in 2017 by the Dick family. Features include a new playground, bike skills area and two multi-use trails that connect to the existing city park at the top of the ridge. The playspace was designed by Ross Fowler. The new trails were purposefully designed to accommodate adaptive mountain bike and adaptive wheelchairs. The Independence Trail begins at the top of the ridge winds to the base where it intersects with the North Ridge Loop Trail. The Independence Trail can accommodate the [...]
New benches for our parks
Take a load off your feet and enjoy the TVA Retirees Association's investment in Knoxville's parks. The group has committed to funding 30 trail benches for city and county parks during a five year period. Three benches were installed at Collier Preserve (pictured top) and two installed at I.C. King Park. Six benches will be installed in the new Playspace and along the new trail on the north side of Sharp's Ridge Veterans Memorial Park.
Work on Collier Preserve is underway
We've kicked off the low-impact work of creating Collier Preserve - a 12-acre nature park in Powell. The property was donated to Legacy Parks in 2017 by Dr. Bob and Louise Collier. Collier Preserve is located next to the Powell Library. Once completed, the natural park will offer an ADA walkway, natural trail, a rest stop on the Beaver Creek Water Trail. The nature park will provide a place for nature exploration and quiet reflection. Opening of Collier Preserve is planned for December.
Legacy Parks receives $5 million grant
Legacy Parks was thrilled to successfully apply for a $5 million BlueCross BlueShield Healthy Place grant for improvements to Morningside Park. Working on behalf of the City of Knoxville, Legacy Parks applied for the grant for improvements including accessible trails, fitness stations and playgrounds, a multi-use field and covered pavilions. The 36-acre park, located adjacent to downtown, is surrounded by university and multi-family apartments, as well as a high-rise community for seniors, including those with disabilities. Two elementary schools are also within walking distance. The park serves diverse groups of residents and these improvements will allow users of all ages and abilities to enjoy the benefits of the park. Special thanks to Ross/Fowler PC for donating services to create the incredible concept plan.