A $7.7 million grant to Legacy Parks Foundation from the Tennessee Heritage Conservation Trust Fund (HCTF) will allow for a significant expansion and new connection at Seven Islands State Birding Park, Legacy Parks and the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation announced today.
The HCTF grant will fund the construction of a 400-foot, ADA fully accessible pedestrian bridge spanning the French Broad River, fulfilling a 40-year vision to provide access to the park from both sides of the river. This long-envisioned expansion will make the park more connected to surrounding communities, encourage outdoor recreation and expand habitat for multiple species. Legacy Parks will manage construction of the bridge.
This new bridge will connect to new parkland being donated to the state by Pete Claussen and Legacy Parks. The 90-acre Claussen property includes 9,000 feet of shoreline, three houses, an island and a nesting bald eagle and second nest under construction.
“The park expansion will result in the protection of critical habitat in and on both sides of the French Broad river as well as creating dramatically greater opportunities for the public to enjoy a very special place. Without the strong support of the State of Tennessee, this opportunity would have been lost,” Pete Claussen explained.
Legacy Parks will donate three recently purchased islands bordering the park, completing the protection of all islands associated with the state park. All totaled, the newly acquired properties add 146 acres and 22,000 feet of protected shoreline to the park.
“This project represents exactly what Legacy Parks strives to do—connect people to nature,” said Carol Evans, Executive Director of Legacy Parks Foundation. “The bridge will not only expand access to Seven Islands State Birding Park but also protect critical habitats and enhance recreation opportunities for generations to come.”
The ecological significance of the newly protected lands and surrounding landscape is nationally recognized. This section of the French Broad River is among the most biologically diverse in the region – home to more than 40 species of fish and over 200 varieties of birds. Bringing the land under state park management ensures the continued health of an extraordinary ecosystem and protects natural and cultural resources.
“This generous gift from the Claussen family is more than a donation of land — it’s a lasting investment in Tennessee’s natural heritage,” said Greer Tidwell, deputy commissioner for the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation. “Their vision and commitment will allow generations of Tennesseans to connect with nature, experience the joy of birding, and explore the beauty of the French Broad River valley. The partnership with the Legacy Parks Foundations will bring this vision to life.”
With this expansion, Seven Islands State Birding Park now encompasses 562-acres with over 11 miles of trails, 8.7 miles of protected shoreline, two boat launches, historic structures and more than 220 bird species. Named Tennessee State Park of the Year in 2023, Seven Islands was also recognized with the Excellence in Visitor Experience Award in 2024 for its ongoing commitment to conservation and community engagement.
Construction of the new bridge and conveyance of the properties is planned to begin in 2026.