2016 Four-Year Implementation Plan Table of Contents
The Vision...... 1
Stakeholder Engagement...... 7
The Plan...... 11
The Design Guide...... 20
Funding the Plan...... 34
Acronym Glossary: AMBC / Appalachian Mountain Bike Club TDOT / Tennessee Department of Transportation GSMNP / Great Smoky Mountains National Park UW / Urban Wilderness LPF / Legacy Parks Foundation WMA / Wildlife Management Area MOU / memorandum of understanding
The Partners That Collaborated On This Plan
Consultant Team THE VISION
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 4-Year Implementation Plan 2 The Urban Wilderness is a collaborative project that is reinventing Using the Goals to Vet Projects Knoxville as one of the Southeast’s premier outdoor towns. Just Big Picture and minutes from downtown, the Urban Wilderness currently is a Vision and The goals below should be referenced in future planning, fabric of connected parks, open space, and trails with over as a “filter” through which all projects are vetted. Projects 1,000 forested acres, 50-miles of multi-purpose trails, world that will accomplish the most goals should be a priority for class mountain bike trails and a bike park, Ijams Nature Center, partners and for funding. Background rock-climbing, four Civil War sites, a Wildlife Management Area with Goals of opportunities for hunting and fishing, and several scenic quarries. Goals The Urban Wilderness—Present and The fabric of the Urban Wilderness will connect schools, the Urban Future neighborhoods, downtown, and existing and emerging businesses. It will stimulate the economy and the revitalization The Systems are Interconnected: including parks, The Knoxville Urban Wilderness represents a dynamic of South Knoxville; many of the investments will not be made by open space, trails, pedestrian/bike facilities, schools, Wilderness communities, downtown, and commerce. partnerships that shines a spotlight on the natural, historic, government, but through actions of the community and non-profits. recreational, and environmental resources of a City. The Make the UW Inclusive and Accessible: All ages, The Urban Wilderness is estimated to have a future annual Urban Wilderness Vision will be a legacy project that pairs in abilities, level of experience, and interests in outdoor impact of $14 million as a regional destination and a $29 importance with the community’s critical role in protecting recreation have a place in the Urban Wilderness. million impact as a national destination, as based on a study the Great Smoky Mountains nearly a century ago. EAST EAST JACKSON AVE Malcolm KNOXVILLE MORNINGSIDE KNOXVILLE
Martin WAREHOUSE r done by the University of Tennessee. Greenway ay
o Malcolm
t MORNINGSIDE nw
c ee e Martin WAREHOUSE DISTRICT PARK r n G Spur Economic Development and Revitalize k The Vision
WEST n Greenway e o e West View Cr C DISTRICT ms Greenway d ia VIEW R SUMMIT MARKET l West View il r F MCANALLY i W o SQUARE r Greenway t S s es White Greenway c e Seco t Jam
o c n HILL
d C r Increase regional attention as an outdoor FLATS o r MCWHERTER Communities:
P n C e d C r e e MARKET k LANDING PARK r e
e k G e r
k G e r e
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n w Greenway o The steering committee defined its vision for the r w a
e l e a y Will Skelton Greenway s y t n o destination that spurs business development, increases 40 DISTRICT T E N ISLAND w N E S S E E R I V E R n a HOME PARK Chapman R y SUTTREE i v LANDING reenway e G & O Trail Ba ker Cr eek G r WORLDS DOWNTOWN PARK G Highway r Urban Wilderness, e 15-20 years into the future. FAIR e ISLAND n visitors, and increases quality of life for residents. FORT PARK SOUTH KNOXVILLE r a i l ( w T p TENNESSEE a ELEMENTARY y Gateway r y a op SCHOOL HOME
w y n Downtown SCHOOL FOR SANDERS O a o e Baker Cr w e ee en
r k Gre & B s Ijams This vision represents what the UW will be and
G THE DEAF r a n cto COTTRELL ST e FORKS o ne k ys on G e d or T C r sland Ho r t ve Creek I me ecto JOHN ec d A Conn Nature OF THE nn lan OLD ) TARLETON Co Knoxvilleber e m PARK Av Cu e RIVER d Gre not what it currently is. n CUMBERLAND SEVIER Center rla THIRD CREEK he SOUTH h e ut GREENWAY n S Sutherland AVENUE w T W PARK a WATERFRONT i Avenue y l Create a Destination with a Sense of Place & Quality l p Connector GOBBLERS S FORKS OF THE STRIP k MARY e Fort y City View l a t o MOUNT JAMES o nw KNOB n ee RIVER WILDLIFE Greenway PARK Gr THIRD CREEK CASTLE y o PARK Dickerson a ROCK MANAGEMENT AREA GREENWAY w Build upon the cultural, natural, and n MAYNARD Experience: e CITY L PARK UNIVERSITY OF e SOUTH r FORT PARK GLENN ay G FIELDS Park t w en n STANLEY e TENNESSEE o HAVEN h Gr r r k cto f e nne r re Co e STANLEY t C e t d ik UNIVERSITY OF a heritage assets, lauding what makes this place unique hir P LIPPENCOTT T n W o l y u t h PARK The Urban Wilderness, in s ai g t a in TENNESSEE y u Tr w K a o en w S o ay e n r t w G loun G e x B ree n nw e e no a e DOGWOOD ti K y r e s r a S G FORT H G and building civic pride. ELEMENTARY / N d s n y e y a r SCHOOL jam la l r I y a DICKERSON F nd UT Agriculture e G UNIVERSITY N u R River Bluff Q p r e Campus e E e PARK nw Connector N a OF TENNESSEE ASBURY y C the heart of Knoxville, Park WOODLAWN PIKE H is the SCOTTISH o h B PIKE PARK y G Quarry a R w or o n LINDBERGH ct O o Greenway e ne se o re y on T A SCOTTISH Trail G wa C D CHEROKEE C n en ue E R re erso re FOREST n I V e ck G ve R K k Fort Di on A n E ER PIKE ers y I o FARM Gets S S L ick d V x o Engage Visitors and Residents to Get Outside: N E Fort D o N M E B T E SOUTH DOYLE l HIGH CHAPMAN HWY R o RIVER BLUFF MIDDLE u S SOUTH
n Jam e Southeast’s most desired e t GROUND SCHOOL s White MARIE MYERS q Park G wa u WILDLIFE AREA y r F
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y e f VESTAL R WILLIAM L Greenway Alterna tiv a a i ek LOG PARK lroa re l e d C t HASTIE B t t James White t HAVEN ur ne NATURAL h Parkway tPRIVATE LAND AREA u EASEMENT in the outdoors. It has Make the UW a National and Regional Destination Log Haven Gateway PRIVATE LAND MARTIN MILL PIKE EASEMENT o Community and VESTAL S for Adventure Sports and Travel and Heritage
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Provides a venue for all kinds of adventure a y oa T Tourism: nw lr
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Community M B Unity o CHAPMAN HWY Greenway u
l MARYVILLE PIKE COMMUNITY n space, parks, thriving by national media for outdoor and heritage tourism. o UNITY PARK t a CHARTER E i COLONIAL ) u DOYLE n d MOUNT OLIVE R VILLAGE se KINGSLEY PARK ELEMENTARY a i l o n SCHOOL r p o y Major Entrance STATION o r wa MARTHA p ark ( S e P m hit neighborhoods, and historic, MOORELAND t a y o es W k WASHINGTON y Jam nway a HEIGHTS Railroad Gree M Points to the d ntain w o
Mou ALCOA HWY ALCOA y HEIGHTS Smok u Collaboratively Manage and Champion the n n e t a G GARY e r i G n R UNDERWOOD a Urban Wilderness i l PARK w r a ALCOA WAY y UW: Partners have a unified vision, have clear roles, G Knox Blount Greenway r cultural, and shopping e OPTIMIST e e n CLUB PARK w a Connection to y Chapm Parks, Open Space, e an Highwa collaboratively manage, collectively seek funding, and y C ay onnec nw tor ree Brown Mountain G n unt and Connections Blo MOUNT ox Kn Greenway Whether you w destinations. measure and celebrate successes. Partnerships are OLIVE (proposed and a existing) strengthened or born in support of the vision. MOUNT OLIVE y ELEMENTARY MALONEY RD SCHOOL are a visitor or resident, the
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r e p e Urban Wilderness provides n I C KING w Provide opportunities a y Increase Health of Community: a y o PARK nw Connection to e re Greenway G r s to ek ec re Brown Mountain nn e C o b C for group recreation, school commuter, business o n n tio K SEVIER ta d H Greenway South Loop S n C to world-class outdoor AN HOME Tip ) BR EN commuter, or family outings that will improve the I K Conceptual N r to EN c L e 0 0.25 0.5 1 1.5 2 n NEUBERT F nector n evier Hwy Con o John S C on and Planned Miles i community’s health and combat obesity. at St adventure at your doorstep. on N t ip RNOR JOHN SEVIER HWY T Connections W GOVE y wa reen reek G k C Stoc Proposed Parks
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 3 4-Year Implementation Plan EAST EAST JACKSON AVE Malcolm KNOXVILLE MORNINGSIDE KNOXVILLE Martin WAREHOUSE
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G THE DEAF r Chapman Hwy. a n cto COTTRELL ST FORKS Long-term Projectsso nne k y o e or T C r sland Ho r t e Creek I m cto JOHN ec NNAv e Conne OF THE n nd TARLETON on erla OLD e C mb South PARK Av Cu RIVER nd CUMBERLAND SEVIER Gre rla THIRD CREEK Waterfront he SOUTH e ut GREENWAY n S HH w Sutherland AVENUE W PARK Greenway a Avenue WATERFRONT Fort y i ll Map GOBBLERS S Connector FORKS OF THE STRIP MARY k Stanley e y City View l a t MOUNT JAMES o nw KNOB n ee RIVER WILDLIFE Greenway PARK Gr THIRD CREEK CASTLE y a OO Connect Cecil Webb and MANAGEMENT AREA GREENWAY PARK w ROCK n MAYNARD PARK e CITY UNIVERSITY OF e Stanley Liponcott Parks to SOUTH r FORT PARK GLENN ay G FIELDS w t Baker Creek and en n STANLEY e TENNESSEE o HAVEN Gr r r k cto f e nne r the Battlefield Loop re Co e STANLEY C e t d ik UNIVERSITY OF a hir P LIPPENCOTT T n W to l PARK y s h ai g t a in TENNESSEE y u Tr w K a o en w S ay e n r t w G loun G e x B reen n e o w e e i I a t n y r DOGWOOD K e as G r L FORT H Tennessee G ELEMENTARY / N d s e n y y a r SCHOOL G&O Trail jam la G l r I n y a DICKERSON River F d UT Agriculture e G UNIVERSITY N u R r Campus Fort Dickerson Q ee PARK (Rail with Trail) E nw Connector Access N a OF TENNESSEE H ASBURY y Park C WOODLAWN PIKE Ijams Nature Center SCOTTISH H B PIKE PARK y G Quarry a Meads Quarry R w or o n LINDBERGH ct O o Greenway e ne se re y on A SCOTTISH Trail G wa C Improvements D CHEROKEE C n en ue E R re erso re FOREST n I V e ck G ve R K k Fort Di on A n E ER PIKE ers y I o FARM S S ick d V x E ort D oo N N F M E B T E SOUTH DOYLE l HIGH CHAPMAN HWY R o RIVER BLUFF MIDDLE u S SOUTH n Jam e e t GROUND SCHOOL s Whit MARIE MYERS q e Par G kway u WILDLIFE AREA F o r o e rk y KNOXVILLE s o a e PARK PARK f the h n FORT River Gre w BAKER CREEK enw a ay y HIGLEY PRESERVE
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AREA MARY a y e R nway Alterna tiv VESTAL Parkway a WILLIAM kGree LOG PARK ilro ee ad Cr O HASTIE B tt Cherokee Farms/ HAVEN ur ne UT Medical Center NATURAL AREA PRIVATE LAND Trail Connection F EASEMENT River Bluff Park PRIVATE LAND VESTAL MARTIN MILL PIKEGG EASEMENT Goose Creek Restoration Project d y a a ro enw il Gre Ra ya h N uo M Seq Connecting GS to ount Fort Dickerson, Smoky M ain tie Railro as LAKE High Ground and ad G H reen FF way FOREST River Bluff Parks Log Haven Historic Cabin Community Unity Community CHAPMAN HWY Greenway (Private) MARYVILLE PIKE COMMUNITY UNITY PARK CHARTER E COLONIAL DOYLE MOUNT OLIVE KINGSLEY PARK ELEMENTARY VILLAGE SCHOOL y wa MARTHA STATION ark S e P MOORELAND m hit o W k es WASHINGTON y Jam nway HEIGHTS Railroad Gree M Mountain o ALCOA HWY ALCOA HEIGHTS Smoky u n t GARY a in
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UNDERWOOD a i l PARK w a ALCOA WAY y Connection to G Knox Blount Greenway r OPTIMIST e Major Entrance e Brown Mountain n CLUB PARK w a Greenway y Chapm Points to the an Hig hway Co ay nnector Urban Wilderness enw Gre unt Blo MOUNT ox Parks, Open Space, Kn OLIVE F and Connections LL River Bluff Park Short- Smoky (proposed and term Mountain existing) J MOUNT OLIVE Projects ELEMENTARY Greenway IC KingMALONEY Park RD SCHOOL Bike Facilities Expansion PP Existing Trails
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MALONEY u n South Loop RD PARK G t Greenway term
r AA e Fort e Projects n I C KING Conceptual w Stanley a ay y w PARK and Planned en re G r Connection to Connections to ek ec re nn C Brown Mountain Co ob n n Proposed Parks io K SEVIER at Greenway St H n C to AN HOME Tip BR EN I K N r to Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness EN c L e 0 0.25 0.5 1 1.5 2 n NEUBERT F nector n evier Hwy Con o John S C n 4-Year Implementation Plan Miles io at 4 St on N t p Ti GOVERNOR JOHN SEVIER HWY W y wa reen reek G k C Stoc Planned Short and Long-term Projects Symbol denotes project voted highest priority by steering committee SHORT-TERM (1-4 YEARS) LONG-TERM (5+ YEARS) Planning Effort & Project Planning Effort & Year of Plan Synopsis Elements of Project Project Synopsis Elements of Project Year of Plan URBAN WILDERNESS (UW)-WIDE URBAN WILDERNESS-WIDE Comprehensive system that ID’s potential Implementation of plan from large and iconic locations for a hierarchy of wayfinding signage Develop a wayfinding plan that ID’s individual Locations and UW Comprehensive gateway project, entrance features, down to major Comprehensive for the UW. This could range from gateways to coordinate with the City to install. Partners begin to implement Comprehensive Wayfinding Plan Wayfinding Plan, Year To To be determined. trail loop signage, or other projects identified in A Wayfinding Plan trail signage, incorporating previous signage signage related to their projects. AA Implemented be determined the plan. and branding efforts. Identify landmark gateways to the UW, whether built or proposed, and develop a comprehen- Several gateway projects determined UW Four-Year Develop Gateways sive approach to the style of these gateway Implementation Plan, Continue to develop gateway projects. To be determined. in more detail further in this plan. Develop Further Gateways B Pilot Project features through architectural, landscape, and BB 2016 UW Four-Year UW branding. Implementation Plan, 2016 Elements of cooperative partnership could Develop a more structured approach to the Identify lead for collaborative projects and UW-wide efforts UW Four-Year establish management and maintenance roles, Develop Cooperative collaboration of core partners, and determine Develop Cooperative Implementation Plan, To be determined. (Legacy Park Foundation suggested as continued lead). ID’d holder of land and easements, or any other C Partnership Structure what projects will be collaborative. CC Partnership Structure 2016 needs established by partners Work with Visit Knoxville to determine how To be determined, but could include developing marketing Further economic development around key areas to regionally promote the Urban Wilderness, UW Four-Year Expand Tourism materials, a visual guide for the UW, developing a promotional Work With Partners to Implementation Plan, of the UW to include food, beverage, services, and To be determined. specifically for adventure racing, travel articles, D Marketing Efforts event (national tier) DD Further Economic Development 2016 lodging. and regional advertising
UW Four-Year Implemen- UW Four-Year Work With Partners to Further economic development around key Work With Partners to tation Plan, 2016 Further economic development around key areas Implementation Plan, 2016 areas of the UW to include food, beverage, Work with partners to incubate business growth. ------of the UW to include food, beverage, services ,and To be determined. Further Economic ------Further Economic E EE South Waterfront Plan, South Waterfront Plan, 2006 services, and lodging. lodging. Development Development 2006 THE BATTLEFIELD LOOP THE BATTLEFIELD LOOP Parking lots on Cherokee trail and off of Carl’s Lane, a Battle The site preserves a significant viewshed from River Bluff Master Plan, 2014 of Armstrong Hill interpretive program, a natural playground, a Log Haven will be an artist-in-residence commu- Artist-in-residence cabins, Log Haven Commons (exhibits, downtown and sensitive habitat, with plans to Knoxville Battlefield ------Tennessee River overlook, kayak and canoe launch, a South nity and conservation area that eventually ties to studio space, offices), Woodland Amphitheater, Cherokee connect to the Battlefield Loop and the South Log Haven Historic Loop, River Bluff Park Knoxville Battlefield Loop, Waterfront Greenway connection, quarry pond trails and the Candora Marble, which the Aslan Foundation Cove Gateway, private trails, Cherokee Cove Trail (public F Waterfront, and develop parking and other FF Cabin Community 2016-2017 (Ongoing) 2016-2017 (Ongoing) boardwalk, Natalie’s Garden, pavilion, and a connection to High may purchase for artist studios. trail as part of the Battlefield Loop. amenities. Ground Park.
Trailhead and parking areas at entrance in the west (W. Blount Ave.), east (Chapman Highway), and north (Augusta Ave.), a beach Preserve Goose Creek corridor and connect a Improve access to and develop amenities Goose Creek Knoxville Battlefield Knoxville Battlefield Loop, and swim area, a beach access path, a comfort station, several system of small parks, including the existing Goose Creek land acquisition, creek restoration, and Fort Dickerson within a park that surrounds the Scenic Quarry Loop, 2016-2017 (Ongoing) improved overlooks, improved and new trails, Restoration and Mary Vestal Park, the South Knoxville Community other items to be determined. G Park Lake and encompasses a Civil War site. GG 2016-2017 (Ongoing) a covered bus stop at the east entrance, the soon to be built Fort Preservation Center, and the Boys and Girls Club. Dickerson Memorial (at the east entrance).
Knoxville Battlefield New trailhead off of Chapman Highway adjacent to Kern’s Loop, Historic Civil War site and park with trails. Fort Stanley Bakery, new trails. HH 2016-2017 (Ongoing) IJAMS NATURE CENTER IJAMS NATURE CENTER
Develop the Quarry site for improved water Expand educational mission and user experience Construction of a vendor/education facility and improved parking Master Plan and Board Construction of unique overnight facilities and Mead’s Quarry Ijams Nature Center Master Plan, 2016 access and use through improved vendor/edu- Strategic Priorities through a unique, overnight facility option (i.e. and water access for all users. Overnight Visitor Experience programmed experiences on the Ijams campus. H Improvements cation facilitites, parking and infrastructure. II Process (2020) cabins, “tree-hotel” or yurt).
Consider key land acquisition that supports and Master Plan and Board Land acquisition that supports Ijams’ mission— Ijams Nature Center Master Plan, 2016 Improve access to the Tennessee river for all Install an accessible dock and boat launch, overlooks, deck and adds additional protection to Ijams’ property and Land/Facilities specifically the long term desire for expanding the visitor Tennessee River Access park users. put in/put out vehicular access. Property Expansion allows for expanded visitor experiences support- I JJ Committee (2020) ive of the Ijams’ mission. experience (overnight stays). PARKS (EXPANSIONS OR NEW—OTHER THAN BATTLEFIELD LOOP PARKS) PARKS (EXPANSIONS OR NEW—OTHER THAN BATTLEFIELD LOOP PARKS)
Develop a South District Recreation Center Expand IC King Park with an alternative access The Knoxville-Knox The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recre- Develop park containing parking, a playground, a large and County Park, Recreation including indoor and outdoor recreation activities, off of Maryville Pike with play fields, a play- Location to be determined. IC King Park Expansion ation and Greenways Plan, 2009 small dog park, ADA pathways, and 3-miles of trail. South District Recreation Center and Greenways Plan, which should be located on a major arterial for J ground, and trails. KK 2009 easy access.
Develop access point to the Urban Wilderness that will serve as a trailhead to access multiple Develop Gateway at James --- K White Parkway existing and future trails/James White Green- way.
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 5 4-Year Implementation Plan Planned Short and Long-term Projects Symbol denotes project voted highest priority by steering committee
SHORT TERM (1-4 YEARS) LONG TERM (5+ YEARS)
Planning Effort & Year Project Planning Effort & Year of Plan Synopsis Elements of Project Project Synopsis Elements of Project of Plan NEW GREENWAYS/ TRAILS OR CONNECTIONS NEW GREENWAYS/ TRAILS OR CONNECTIONS A three-mile multi-use crusher run trail to be built along the G&O Railway (rail with trail), that Elements To be determined, but early planning will Develop a greenway that follows the former Smoky G&O Trail connects Chapman Highway (near the South require some acquisition of easements, working The Knoxville-Knox County Planning to be underway soon Park, Recreation and Mountain Railroad line, connecting the Vestal Area, To be determined Waterfront) , through Ijams to the South Loop with encroachments, in addition to planning for Smoky Mountain Greenway L (Rail with Trail) LL Greenways Plan, 2009 Charter E. Doyle Park, and areas further South. of the UW, serving as commuter route and trailheads and access points recreation asset
Connecting Battlefield Urban Wilderness & Historic Corridor Chapman Highway is a major barrier in pedes- Loop and the G&O Connectivity Study Narrative, 2009 trian/bike connectivity for the east and west Utilizes existing sidewalks and crossings (at East Across Chapman ------sides of the Urban Wilderness and an above- Blount Avenue) or study crossings that are not The Knoxville-Knox County Develop a Baker Creek Greenway that connects the South Knoxville Battlefield Loop, grade crossing was one recommended solution at-grade (possible pedestrian bridge) and improve Park, Recreation and Waterfront to Mary James Park and south to Baker Creek To be determined Highway 2016-2017 (Ongoing) Baker Creek Greenway M in addition to improving overall pedestrian Chapman Highway and Moody Avenue for MM Greenways Plan, 2009 Preserve. & Making Chapman ------The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and and bike connectivity in this area of Chapman pedestrians and bicyclists, where capable Highway More Highway Pedestrian/Bike Friendly Greenways Plan (2009)
Connecting Connect High Ground Park to Fort Dickerson via Urban Wilderness & Historic Corridor Need to secure easement, potentially tunnel under The Knoxville-Knox County Fort Dickerson, a multi-use trail along the South Waterfront or Connectivity Study Narrative, 2009 CSX railway, have a pedestrian bridge across Goose South Waterfront Park Recreation and via a multi-use trail (that requires an easement Greenways Plan, 2009 Continue to expand the South Waterfront Greenway. To be determined Fort Stanely, ------Creek, travel across Blount Avenue, and connect N Knoxville Battlefield Loop, purchase) from Scottish Pike Park to the west NN Greenway ------High Ground and into Dickerson Park on the west side 2016-2017 (Ongoing) part of Fort Dickerson South Waterfront Plan, 2006 River Bluff Parks
Easement from River Bluff Park to University of Create a master plan Tennessee (UT) property will allow extension Cherokee Farms/ The greenway will be a natural surface trail and Connect Cecil Webb and Stanley Liponcott The Knoxville-Knox County to link Cecil Webb Park and Cecil Webb The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and of greenway to connect Battlefield Loop to UT may include other linking features like bike lanes, Parks to South Doyle and Baker Creek to the Park, Recreation and Recreation Center; consider an expanded open To be determined UT Medical Center Greenways Plan, 2009 Medical Center, Cherokee Farm (Research and O or sidewalks OO west, and the Battlefield Loop to the east Greenways Plan, 2009 space system linking Dogwood Elementary and Trail Connection Development Campus) , and the Knox Blount the old South Knoxville Elementary School. Greenway
The Knoxville-Knox County Brown Mountain Connect IC King Park to the core of the UW by connecting Park, Recreation and To be determined PP Crossing Greenway Greenways Plan, 2009 to the Smokey Mountain Railroad Greenway. Summary of Plans Reviewed for Short Long-Term Projects
Knoxville IC King Park Battlefield Loop, 2016 South Waterfront Plan, 2006 Urban Wilderness River Bluff Master Plan, Ijams Nature Center Master Plan, 2016 Annual Road Map Connectivity Map, 2009 2014 Master Plan, 2015 2016-2017, 2016 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Ijams Nature Center Master Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness Recreation and Greenways Plan, Plan, 2015 4-Year Implementation Plan 2009 6 Stakeholder Engagement
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 7 4-Year Implementation Plan Stakeholder Comments on the Vision Stakeholders Stakeholder Engagement and and Goals Stakeholder Refinement of the Plan Over 65 stakeholders attended the Two-day Prior to the Two-Day Workshop, the stakeholders were sent Workshop. The list of stakeholders include: an online survey of a draft of the vision and goals for the Engagement Steering Committee develops and refines Urban Wilderness, which was developed by the steering »» 3G Designs vision and goals of the Urban Wilderness committee. A summary of the responses are below. »» Appalachian Mountain Bike Club Stakeholders The Steering Committee »» Aslan Foundation Stakeholders »» City Council Members feel they are somewhat The public/stakeholder process is outlined in the following »» City of Knoxville Redevelopment, very familiar agree pages. This plan was developed through input from a core Operations, and Parks and Recreation options for access to the with the proposed steering committee and over 65 stakeholders. »» Civil War Roundtable Stakeholders provide input vision and some »» Dewhirst Properties on vision and goals Urban Wilderness, and access it in of the comments A steering committee made up of the core Urban Wilderness »» East Tennessee History Museum included: partners provided regular direction for this plan. This a lot of different »» Hampton Inn, Downtown ------committee is comprised of the following organizations: »» Ijams Nature Center, employees and board ways »»Several felt there should members “Let’s make this THE be mention of hunting »» City of Knoxville, Parks and Recreation and Public »» Island Home Neighborhood Association Two-Day Workshop is Held and fishing as part of Works Priority for Knoxville outdoor recreation »» Joe Hultquist 65+ stakeholders divided into »» Legacy Parks Foundation (and emphasize »» John Becker three focus groups »» Knox County Parks and Recreation action/building/ »»Several felt that shopping »» Ijams Nature Center »» Kelly Conley improvements/ should be removed »» Appalachian Mountain Bike Club (AMBC) »» Kim Wood expansion over more from the vision Heritage, Green Hubs and statement, even though »» Aslan Foundation »» Knox County Health Department Economic Culture, Connectivity planning and talking).” they agree it might be a »» Knox County Recreation and Greenways Development Health and (Trails, Parks, —Stakeholder quote and Tourism side effect of the vision »» Knox County Schools Community and UW Lands) from survey The Two-Day Workshop »» Knox Obesity Coalition »» Knoxville Area Transportation Planning A two-day workshop occurred on August 23rd and 24th, Priority of Goals (based on stakeholder response) 2016 with the goal to get input from stakeholders on the Organization (TPO) Common Questions for All vision, goals, opportunities and challenges, and specific »» Knoxville Chamber Economic Development The Systems are projects identified by the steering committee. »» Knoxville History Project Interconnected »» Knoxville Track Club Make the UW Inclusive and Specific Questions for Each Focus Group »» Lake Forest Neighborhood Association Accessible For all Ages and Abilities »» Legacy Parks Foundation Stakeholder Spur Economic Development »» Lindbergh Neighborhood Association and Revitalize Communities »» Navitat Recommendations »» Partners Development Recommendations Create a Destination with »»Greatest Strengths a Sense of Place & Quality »» River Sports Outfitters »»Challenges and Improvements Experience » »» Sanders Pace Architects »New Opportunities Engage Visitors and Residents »» South Haven Neighborhood Representative to Get Outside Project Prioritization »» Tennessee Valley Bikes »»Comments on Projects Make the UW a National and »»Prioritization of Projects Regional Destination for »» Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency Adventure Sports and Travel »» View Park Neighborhood Representatives and Heritage Tourism »» Visit Knoxville Collaboratively Manage and Champion the UW
Steering Committee Increase Health of Community Develops Draft Four-Year Less Important More Important Implementation Plan
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 4-Year Implementation Plan 8 What We Heard—Stakeholder Over 65 stakeholders provided “What the Urban input on the Opportunities Recommendations and Strengths of the Urban Wilderness is doing is Wilderness Greatest Strengths RE-BRANDING Knoxville Stakeholders voted on what Proximity to Downtown. Once better connections projects they felt were highest are made to downtown, it’s close proximity will be one priority—this ranking is shown of the UW’s greatest assets. as a City.” to the right
The UW has world class amenities, with something —Stakeholder quote for everyone. Once there are more amenities with a greater diversity of users, the UW will provide from workshop something for everyone. The mountain biking amenities are world class and should be promoted Capitalize on the ties to the Great Smoky Mountains nationally. National Park (GSMNP). Capitalize on the physical The soul of the UW is fostered by non-profits and and historic ties to the Park. The UW can have a volunteer organizations and should continue to be National Park-like feel and experience which could non-profit and community led. This effort is led by draws some of the 9.4 million visitors from GSMNP. non-profits such as Legacy Parks Foundation, Ijams Use the story that Knoxville played an essential role in Nature Center, Appalachian Mountain Bike Club, and the creation of the GSMNP, and tie in the legacy to the the Aslan Foundation. Relationships with the Knoxville creation of the UW. Track Club and others should continue to be fostered through this collaboration. AMBC has spent countless Continue the relationship with schools, by getting volunteer hours to help build UW amenities, which in kids into the UW through fieldtrips. turn has helped build community. The user community The UW connects communities and habitat! The UW helps to police and provide information to new users. has great opportunity to connect open space and The Knoxville Track Club organizes races that connect communities. Much of South Knoxville is less walking/ the community. The UW connects physical places but bike friendly and the connections in the UW will vastly most importantly creates a sense of community in improve community connectivity. South Knoxville. Capitalize on the culture of neighborhoods. Tight-knit Many layers of heritage are waiting to be unearthed. and organized neighborhoods want to be part of From the Civil War to the marble industry, there are the UW movement and efforts. Taking advantage of many layers of history to unearth that will add to the neighborhood groups will create local ownership. richness of, and attract visitors to, the UW. The history of the conversion of industrialized land into a major Many are interested in making South Knoxville and the ecotourism destination should be used as a major UW synonymous. The UW not only will redefine South theme in the story of the UW. Knoxville, but can define the character of Knoxville. Nature juxtaposed to the urban landscape sets the UW apart. The natural character of the UW juxtaposed to downtown is unprecedented. We must maintain this character to retain the greatest strength of the UW. The health, social, economic, and environmental benefits of this proximity to nature should be shared with the community.
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 9 4-Year Implementation Plan New Opportunities Addressing Challenges & Expand river access and programming. Provide guided Opportunities for Improvement boat tours on the Tennessee River under the banner of Formalize partner/stakeholder engagement. the Urban Wilderness. TWRA is interested in providing Expand the diversity of recreation options. Recreation Many desire and have expressed need for routine river access, potentially a fishing pier, in the next four opportunities appear one-dimensional, the UW is perceived communication/meetings quarterly, semi-annually, or years and may have grant funding to do so. Ijams will be as a place for the “hard core” recreation user. Expand and yearly. Develop a yearly summit to engage all partners. opening a river access area within the next year. promote a diversity of opportunities beyond mountain biking These efforts can help “grease” the effectiveness of or moderate-difficult trails. Provide more options for passive Develop themed trails related to heritage, birding, and collaboration. recreation or activities that do not require equipment. other themes. Develop one or more heritage trails. An example of this is the Freedom Trail in Boston. Other Develop UW ambassadors and/or a volunteer corps trails could be birding or wildlife viewing themed. Improve and expand access options and wayfinding in the program, as a collaborative effort among partners. UW. More signage is needed at access points and on trails. Utilize neighborhood associations and businesses to Integrate the arts into the UW using artists to help Several stakeholders reported users getting lost in the UW. It help grow, advocate, and make connections for the UW. design the gateways. Engage the City Public Arts would also be helpful to identify easy vs. more difficult trails. Recruit companies and neighborhood associations to Committee in their ideas for artists integration. Develop Wayfinding from neighborhoods into the Urban Wilderness have volunteer work parties that provide services for the more “arts in the park” opportunities, whether at Ijams will help locals know where they can find access. Utilize the Nature Center or other locations. Google mapped trails and improve upon the mobile phone UW. Utilize partners and volunteers in environmental Ijams is expanding map application. Find the “sweet spot” that balances too restoration and conservation through stream cleanups, Expand rock-climbing opportunities. rock climbing as part of its outdoor adventure center little and too many signs. invasive species control, and habitat improvements. Continue to build a volunteer base for trail construction activities. This can bring in new/expanded users. Need commercial infrastructure that supports the UW. and maintenance. Designate and build one or two visitor centers as There is a need for commercial business, especially bike major gateways into the UW. These could range from a shops, restaurants/cafes, B&B’s, and camping opportunities. Expand Partnership with Schools. Expand field trips building with a restroom to a major trailhead with a large to Ijams and into the greater UW. Develop after school covered outdoor kiosk. Expand basic amenities. More restrooms and parking programs that engage the UW. Work with the Safe is needed throughout the UW. Make many small access Routes to School program to be integrated into the UW’s Develop an UW themed education series that works points vs. fewer large access points. Other desired amenities connectivity goals. Work with schools to do bicycle as a collaboration of partners. UW partners could include places to get water, have picnics/food trucks, and rodeos that engage students with the UW. provide education to local landowners on stewardship informational centers, like kiosks with maps. opportunities. TWRA is interested in collaborating on Develop iconic gateways. Look at Tweetsie Trail as an education, whether related to training on hunter safety, Steward the UW collectively, as forest health is threatened. example of iconic gateways invasive species management, or other programs. Ijams Forest health and especially invasive species are a real has expressed interest in collaborations as well. There is a challenge for the UW. Several expressed the desire to come Get more funders to the table, especially other need for organized tours to get non-traditional users out together as a community of stakeholders to share best Develop a clear and powerful message to define the UW. foundations. (involve speaker bureaus, civic clubs, etc). practices, lessons learned, and take a stand against declining Develop a campaign for local awareness of the UW before forest health. national promotion. Create a clear message and market it Assess community needs and desires for recreation. locally. If all locals know where and what it is, they will bring Continue to expand cultural/heritage centers and The Health Department can promote activities and Make improvements to Chapman Highway since it is programming like the Candora Arts and Heritage a major barrier and detracts from the UW experience. visitors and provide free tourism promotion. Folks from assess what kind of recreation the casual user wants. West Knoxville are far less aware of the UW. Centers, which can serve as cultural gateways into the Improvements to Chapman Highway will greatly enhance UW. Partner with the Knoxville History Project to lead Engage larger UW stakeholders in the Chapman the UW by serving as a major gateway with supporting tours and hikes in the Battlefield Loop. Highway Corridor Study in 2017. commercial enterprises, serving as an entrance to the UW Improve user knowledge about regulations pertaining to with signage, and providing connection to the two parts of different lands. Devise a way to communicate this. Ijams Explore opportunities to maintain affordable housing Build a University of Tennessee Partnership. UT groups the UW. has specific regulations that need to be communicated. like a community land trust. This is especially critical if are often using Ijams and Fork of the River WMA for TWRA wants to resolve/address issues related to required Connect the Urban Wilderness. Connecting all UW the UW causes home prices to rise. education purposes, but don’t often notify or work with permits and confusion on seasonal hiking regulations. the landowners. Student research groups use the lands properties should be a major focus, especially the connection Open a trolley/bus route to major gateways of the UW. of the South Loop to the Battlefield Loop. Access and Capitalize on the Tennessee River and the South Waterfront Connect hotels, convention centers, outfitters, and the but rarely collaborate with the land manager. Having connectivity in newer UW lands should take precedence over more. More boat access is needed. This is an under- University of Tennessee together through transit. Visit some kind of cooperative research relationship under the other amenities. served asset of the UW. Work on ways to ensure the South Knoxville reports a high demand for visitors needing rides banner of the UW could be helpful. Waterfront area feels part of the UW. to the UW who are staying downtown. Address threat to loss of character in the neighborhoods. Many expressed a perceived threat to community character, Perceptions exist that there are some conflicts with hikers/ Develop camping/cabins/”glamping”. Ijams Nature with the coming of multi-family housing. Many felt the runners and mountain bikers and that families don’t use Center is considering a small camping area, which could character is or will change. Actively planning to maintain the mountain biking trails in fear of getting run over. be a pilot project that gages demand for this service. historic character is important.
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 4-Year Implementation Plan 10 The Plan
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 11 4-Year Implementation Plan $ Funding a Accomplishment or Four-Year Implementation Timeline Need Project Completed YEAR 1 YEAR 2 YEAR 3 YEAR 4 (Present-June 30, 2018) (July 1, 2018-June 30, 2019) (July 1, 2019-June 30, 2020) (July 1, 2020-June 30, 2021)
Implement Gateways » » »» IC King Park and James Leadership $ » Fort Dickerson and Gateways » IC King Park and James Gateways Gateways Continue Implementing Wayfinding & team plans 6 implemented G&O Trail wayfinding 6 implemented $ White Parkway wayfind- implemented White Parkway wayfinding $ implemented As Needed URBAN Gateways locations »» Ijams Nature Center implements wayfinding signage installed ing signage installed 4 signage installed 4
»» Establish core leadership team Develop »» Hold UW Summit, strengthen UW Alliance »» Hold UW Summit, strengthen UW Alliance »» Hold UW Summit, strengthen UW Alliance Continue WILDERNESS »» Hold first UW Summit, being “UW Alliance” Cooperative »» Finalize preferred management structure for »» Develop memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with partners »» Transfer any lands to land manager if needed Work »» Begin to outline management structure the UW »» Continue funding the UW Alliance Coordinator, seek permanent Partnership »» Develop an Urban Wilderness Coordinator »» Continue funding the UW Alliance Coordinator funding for position (UW)-WIDE Structure position with LPF to coordinate the UW Alliance
»» Establish action plan to market locals »» Shuttles from downtown to UW PROJECTS Expand Tourism/Local Visitor »» Host media tours with Visit Knoxville established and run by Visit Knoxville » $ Marketing and Further »» Develop package for conventions/hotels » Continue to support tourism and local resident marketing efforts and business recruitment Economic Development »» Engage on Chapman Highway Corridor Study »» Continue to provide input on »» Participate in business recruitment Chapman Highway
River Bluff »» Design and »» Design and engineering »» Fundraising engineering for trails and parking/ »» Initial parking/trailhead(s) and Further park improvements (other park amenities) Park $ completed beyond year 4 THE completed trailheads completed trails implemented
BATTLEFIELD »» Capital funding and fundraising » »» Design and » Capital funding and fundraising »» Capital funding Fort Dickerson »» Begin construction for basic improvements » engineering $ $ » Begin construction for other amenities a »» Continue and complete construction LOOP Park completed for parking and trails »» Trail construction and maintenance
»» Implement wayfinding »» Capital campaign for improvements »» Develop vendor/concessions mobile structure »» Add overnight camping experience for target Mead’s »» Enhance swim area, beer garden, and landscaping groups specific to Ijam’s mission »» Capital plan build out IJAMS and improve access to Quarry water for users Quarry $ »» Enhance lime kiln area and develop a »» Coordinate with Legacy Parks on the G&O project interpretation surrounding G&O Trail NATURE as it enters and travels through the Ijams property Tennessee »» Open dock, road, boat rentals, and begin »» Engineering and design for fully completed river programming River access »» Capital plan build out CENTER »» Coordinate with Legacy Parks on the G&O project as $ »» Fundraising and capital campaign specific to the a Access it enters and travels through the Ijams property build out of the Ijams Master Plan
IC King Park »» Implement LPRF grant, begin »» Construction continues and PARKS Expansion construction, complete trails a completed (EXPANSIONS OR NEW— »» Fundraising Develop Gateway OTHER THAN BATTLEFIELD »» Finalize TDOT agreement »» Design, funding, and permitting »» Construction of James White LOOP PARKS) at James White »» Program space, and plan trail $ a completed a Parkway Gateway Parkway connections »» BMX Park construction
»» Develop plan and cost estimates » $ » Find funding »» Develop side trails that connect » G&O » Sign easements and agreements the G&O to neighborhoods and » a Trail » Develop signage amenities »» Construction underway and a completed NEW Connect the Battlefield Loop »» Formalize plans for improvements for connectivity »» Engineering, coordination with Construction occurs TDOT, public input beyond year 4 GREENWAYS/ Across Chapman Hwy »» Consider in plans integrating a small UW Welcome Center
Connect Fort Dickerson, »» Coordinate plans to »» Engineering, coordination with TDOT, public input, »» Initial connectivity/alignment identified TRAILS Fort Stanley, High Ground, connect Scottish Pike land acquisition, and landowner/easements »» Design for Cherokee Cove Trail connection a and River Bluff Parks to River Bluff Park »» Trail construction of Cherokee Cove Trail CONNECTIVITY Cherokee Farms/ »» Find funding »» Finalize easements and UT Medical Center » $ design a » Continue and complete construction Trail Connection Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness »» Begin construction 4-Year Implementation Plan 12 EAST EAST JACKSON AVE Malcolm KNOXVILLE MORNINGSIDE KNOXVILLE Martin WAREHOUSE
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YEAR 1 YEAR 2 YEAR 3 YEAR 4 PROJECT Actions Partner(s) Actions Partner(s) Actions Partner(s) Actions Partner(s)
Funding Accomplishment or URBAN WILDERNESS (UW)-WIDE PROJECTS $ Need Project Completed
in future wayfinding maps Lead: LPF/ ALL Categorize difficulty of trails Supporting: YEARS Inventory all existing signs and create a geo-referenced database: Geo-reference all sign locations and create a standard database of information on each sign and continue to update as signage is added. Leadership Team
Lead: LPF/ Lead: LPF/ Determine needs for pedestrian/trail Supporting: Leader- YEARS Supporting: Leader- Implement a 2-4 Continue to implement as trails and pedestrian/bike connectivity is improved wayfinding. ship Team ship Team Comprehensive A Signage/ Leadership Team, Led by City, Develops Auto-wayfinding Plan with sign locations and design details in collaboration with City Engineer, AMBC to help find examples from other trail system.
Wayfinding Fully plan auto and pedestrian Lead: Ijams Fort Dickerson and G&O Trail Lead: City IC King Park and Supporting: City Supporting: Aslan River Bluff Park auto-wayfinding Program wayfinding at Ijams Nature Center auto-wayfinding signage installed to and LPF James White Parkway auto-wayfin- signage installed to direct to gateway/ $ based on plan developed by direct to gateway/entrances/ ding signage installed to direct to leadership team trailheads gateway/entrances/trailheads. entrances/trailheads.
Implement District Gateway: Lead: City, Ijams, Lead: City, LPF, Lead: City Lead: City and Aslan Chapman Highway Gateway Implement Site Gateways: Implement District Gateway: Implement site gateways: $ LPF, and Aslan Aslan, and County Supporting Partner: Supporting Partner: Implement Site Gateways: 1. Fort Dickerson (west entrance) Gay Street Bridge Gateway LPF 1. River Bluff arkP Gateway at the LPF Develop 1. Fort Dickerson East Entrance (modifi- 2. G&O Trail and Sevier Avenue Implement site gateways: Cherokee Trail Entrance Gateways cation to plans Gateway 1. Scottish Pike Park Gateway 2. River Bluff arkP Gateway at Carl’s 2. High Ground Park Entrance 3. G&O Trail and Island Home 2. Suttree Landing Park Gateway Lane Entrance Pilot Project 3. Baker Creek/Adventure Playground B Gateway 3. Island Home Park Gateway 3. Cherokee Cove Trail Gateway (As Part of Larger 4. Ijams Nature Center— Visitor Center 4. G&O Trail and Ijams Nature 4. James White Parkway Gateway Entrance Gateway Center Gateway Wayfinding 5. Ijams Nature Center—Meads Quarry 5. Will Skelton Greenway and Ijams Program) Gateway Nature Center Gateway 6. Ijams Nature Center—South Entrance 6. IC King Park Gateway
Establish a core leadership team, meet monthly and ad-hoc groups meet Develop the as needed. Lead: LPF and City Lead: LPF and City Supporting: Supporting: Cooperative YEARS Meet monthly and ad-hoc groups meet as needed, take stock in first quarter of year four to assess accomplishments and develop next steps Explore funding and implement a Leadership Team 2-4 Leadership Team Partnership $ position at LPF that would coordi- nate UW plan and the UW Alliance. C Structure, Lead: LPF Lead: LPF ALL Hold first UW Summit in 2017. Supporting: YEARS Continue to hold Urban Wilderness Alliance Summit annually Supporting: Known as the Leadership Team Leadership Team Finalized preferred management “Urban Wilderness Begin to outline a cooperative land Develop memorandums of under- Lead: LPF structure for UW, including poten- Lead: LPF Lead: LPF Transfer any lands to land Lead: LPF management structure, determine Supporting: Supporting: standing between organizations, if Supporting: Supporting: Alliance” tial “land manager” for properties manager if need is determined ideal model Leadership Team Leadership Team determined useful Leadership Team Leadership Team needing a cohesive manager Establish an action plan for marketing UW to locals Lead: LPF Develop and lead guided tours of Lead: AMBC Supporting: Leader- Supporting: YEARS Guided tour programs underway Expand the UW Brand Package to be ship Team the UW system Leadership Team 3-4 “open source”, work with partners Expand Tourism/ Lead: LPF Establish shuttles from down- Management of media outreach and/ Lead: Visit Knoxville Supporting: town (overseen by Visit Knox- D Local Visitors Supporting: ALL Continue to management/coordinate media outreach tourism marketing, provide content Leadership Team YEARS ville) to the Urban Wilderness as Leadership Team and/marketing and provide content to Visit Knoxville Marketing Efforts to Visit Knoxville, host media tours Visit Knoxville well as a bike share program
Lead: LPF & Ijams Develop packages for convention YEARS Support ing: 2-4 Continue to develop, collaborate, and measure success of tourism packages for visitors participants/hotels Leadership Team
Lead: City Work With Partners to Further YEAR 1 Work with MPC on Chapman Highway Corridor Study YEAR 2-4 Help implement study: Work with MPC to address zoning and overlays adapted to support all efforts in the UW Supporting: Leadership Team E $ Economic Development and Lead: LPF Participate in business Supporting: YEARS Ensure Quality Growth 2-4 Continue to participate in business recruitment recruitment Leadership Team Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 4-Year Implementation Plan 14 »» Establish Legacy Parks Foundation as the coordinator The Proposed of the Urban Wilderness Alliance and regular meetings of the Leadership Team. An Urban Wilderness Developing a coordinator, which could be housed under LPF, would ALLIANCE oversee day-to-day logistics. Funding this position will be Cooperative critical to moving the Alliance concept forward. LEADERSHIP TEAM »» Build a Volunteer Corps. Many partnering organizations Legacy City of Ijams Aslan Knox already have a volunteer base. The UW Alliance can help AMBC Parks TWRA Knoxville Nature Foundation County Partnership build upon this base through a combined volunteer corps Center Foundation effort based on an individual’s interest (trail building and Alliance maintenance, invasive species management, engagement Coordinator Legacy Parks Foundation (and Urban Wilderness Alliance Coordinator) with users). AMBC and LPF’s UW Coordinator could share the Position Structure (with LegacyParks role in building/coordinating this volunteer corps. Several Leadership Team Members Participate in Working Groups stakeholders mentioned the potential to develop volunteer Foundation) rangers that engage with users of the UW, especially on The Urban Wilderness WORKING GROUPS (AD HOC) weekends where they could help users that are in need Alliance of assistance (flat tire, lost, etc), or educate them on user Tourism & Land Planning & Community and etiquette. One of the biggest recommendations to come Marketing Managers Economic Development Culture out of the Four-Year Implementation Planning process, is the need for a more structured collaborative approach to manage, ALLIANCE PARTNERS Cooperative Partnership Example fund, and guide the implementation of the Urban Wilderness. »» Visit Knoxville »» City of Knoxville »» Knoxville-Knox County »» Neighborhood The following recommendation were developed based on »» Business »» Legacy Parks Metropolitan Planning organizations steering committee and stakeholder feedback: representatives/ Foundation Commission »» Knoxville Track Club »» Knoxville Regional »» AMBC »» Develop the “Urban Wilderness Alliance”, a (hotels, etc) »» Aslan Foundation »» AMBC Transportation »» Heritage formalized structure of partners that participate regularly Planning Organization and cultural or occasionally. During stakeholder engagement, many Cooperative models for managing »» Ijams Nature ...It offers a much-needed »» Business representatives organizations partners expressed the need for more communication public open space have become Center »» Schools and collaboration. Some of these topics are discussed commonplace. One of the unified platform for best examples similar to the »» Tennessee Wildlife »» Health in New Opportunities on page 10. Recommendations for increased collaboration to Urban Wilderness Alliance is the Resource Agency organizations cultivating the Urban Wilderness Alliance include: Tamalpais Land Collaborative support priority projects, in the San Francisco Bay Area of »» Knox County • Hold an Annual UW Alliance Summit. An annual California. This collaborative is sustain conservation and UW Alliance Summit will allow partners to coalesce made of the following entities: restoration program, around key issues, help build capacity for UW WAYS TO ENGAGE PARTNERS »» The National Park Service coordinate education and implementation, and build advocates who will back »» California State Parks stewardship,and increase the UW in the future. »» Marin Municipal Water the size and capacity of • District »» Develop an action »» Wayfinding and »» Coordination/input »» Help develop a Provide quarterly electronic communication »» Marin County Parks to the partners and other interested parties on the volunteer corps caring plan to market to signage on Chapman Highway volunteer corps »» The Golden Gate Parks locals »» Management and Corridor Study »» Serve as advocates accomplishments and upcoming projects. Conservancy for these lands. It also provides a vehicle for »» Media tours stewardship: »» Coordination and input for Urban Wilderness »» Tourism packages • Forest stewardship on future plans relating to initiatives These organizations came coordinated philanthropic »» Formalize the Leadership Team that heads the together to re-brand a landscape (targeting downtown and invasive species the UW »» Help build and Urban Wilderness Alliance. The leadership team, and to increase collaboration support and community hotels) control »» Participate in business collaborate made of Legacy Parks Foundation, the City of Knoxville, where common goals existed. » Philanthropic recruitment was a engagement that will » Coordinating tourism • Coordination of recruitment on outreach, Ijams Nature Center, Knox County, AMBC, and the Aslan major focus and all partners agreed demonstrate the power shuttle regulatory issues programming, and Foundation, will guide the implementation of this plan as to seek philanthropic funding of collective impact and »» Develop and lead »» Trail and facilities events well as lead the growth of the Alliance concept. The team collectively versus competitively. guided tours of the UW maintenance common vision. »» Business support, UW »» Developing shared could meet monthly, or even more regularly for specific The Collaborative’s goals include project coordination. efforts to restore the ecosystem, businesses integrate resources improve trail corridors, enhance the brand into their »» Partnering on specific visitor experiences, expand education and stewardship, and inspire community marketing projects support through volunteerism and philanthropy. »» Develop a volunteer Check out this incredible resource of information about the Collaborative and corps landscape/public lands collaborative management: Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness www.onetam.org 15 4-Year Implementation Plan The Battlefield Loop / Four-Year Implementation Plan
YEAR 1 YEAR 2 YEAR 3 YEAR 4 PROJECT Actions Partner(s) Actions Partner(s) Actions Partner(s) Actions Partner(s)
Funding Accomplishment or THE BATTLEFIELD LOOP $ Need a Project Completed $ • Fundraising/funding need Lead: City and Aslan Lead: City and Aslan • Design and engineering for trails Design and engineering completed Lead: City and Aslan • Initial parking /trailhead(s) and trails Supporting: LPF and F Supporting: LPF and parking/trailhead(s) River Bluff Park implemented AMBC $ $ • Capital funding/fundraising $ • Capital funding • Capital funding/fundraising • Begin construction for other ame- Lead: City and Aslan Lead: City and Aslan Lead: City and Aslan Design and engineering completed Begin construction for parking, trails, nities Supporting: LPF and Lead: City G Fort Dickerson Park Supporting: LPF • Supporting: LPF a and basic improvements • Trail construction and maintenance AMBC • Continue construction, complete (AMBC)
Proposed Elements for Quarry Lake at Fort Dickerson Park
PAVED PARKING AREA
DROP OFF AREA OVERLOOK
OVERLOOK
Proposed Elements River Bluff Park
GOOSE CREEK CORRIDOR GREENWAY Images from Knoxville Battlefield Loop Plan, Sanders Pace Architecture and PORT STEPPED SEATING Urbanism, 2016
WATER ACCESS + BEACH + DESIGNATED SWIM AREA
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 4-Year Implementation Plan 16 Ijams Nature Center / Four-Year Implementation Plan
YEAR 1 YEAR 2 YEAR 3 YEAR 4 PROJECT Actions Partner(s) Actions Partner(s) Actions Partner(s) Actions Partner(s)
Funding Accomplishment or IJAMS NATURE CENTER $ Need Project Completed $ a • Implement wayfinding • Develop vendor/concessions mobile • Initiate capital campaign for structure improvements • Enhance swim area, beer garden and • Add overnight camping experience landscaping for targeted groups specific to Ijam’s Lead: Ijams Lead: Ijams Improve access for users to the re- Lead: Ijams mission Capital campaign build-out H Mead’s Quarry • Supporting: County Supporting: County strooms and Quarry water for vendor • Historic interpretation of the lime customers and swimmers kiln, enhance landscaping around • Coordinate with LPF on the G&O G&O Trail project as it enters and travels through the Ijams property $ • Open dock a • Electric access gate installed • Fundraising and capital campaign • Road improvements specific to the build out of the Ijams • Boat rentals Lead: Ijams Lead: Ijams Lead: Ijams River Access/ Paddling/ Lead: Ijams Master Plan Capital campaign build-out I • Adaptive programming with catalyst Supporting: City Supporting: City • Engineering and technical support Programming • Coordinate with Legacy Parks on the for river access G&O project as it enters and travels through the Ijams property
Proposed Mead’s Quarry Improvements (Outdoor Classroom)
Images from Ijams Outdoor Education Building Study, MHM and Ross/Fowler, 2016
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 17 4-Year Implementation Plan Parks (Other Than Battlefield Loop) / Four-Year Implementation Plan
YEAR 1 YEAR 2 YEAR 3 YEAR 4 PROJECT Actions Partner(s) Actions Partner(s) Actions Partner(s) Actions Partner(s)
Funding Accomplishment or PARKS (EXPANSIONS OR NEW—OTHER THAN BATTLEFIELD LOOP PARKS) $ Need Project Completed
Implement Local Park and Recreation a IC King Park Fund (LPRF) grant, begin Lead: County and IC King construction continues Lead: County and J park and trail construction, and then AMBC and is finished AMBC Expansion maintenance begins
$ a • Finalize TDOT agreement • Program Space between Baker Creek • Design, funding and permitting Construction of Lead(s): City and LPF Lead(s): City and LPF Lead(s): City and LPF Preserve and James White Parkway Supporting: AMBC completed Supporting: AMBC James White Parkway Supporting: AMBC Develop Gateway at • Plan trail connections from Dogwood Gateway K Elementary to James White Parkway James White Parkway $
• BMX park location determined and Lead(s): County a Lead(s): County designed and LPF and LPF BMX Park construction • Fundraising/funding need Supporting: AMBC Supporting: AMBC
Proposed IC King Park Expansion
See blow-up
Blow-up of park detail
Images from Knox County, 2016
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 4-Year Implementation Plan 18 Trails & Connectivity / Four-Year Implementation Plan
YEAR 1 YEAR 2 YEAR 3 YEAR 4 PROJECT Actions Partner(s) Actions Partner(s) Actions Partner(s) Actions Partner(s)
Accomplishment or $ Funding NEW GREENWAYS/TRAILS CONNECTIVITY Need Project Completed $ • Develop design plan and cost esti- mates • Seek funding • Develop side-trails that connect • Sign easements and agreements the G&O to neighborhoods and • Design/develop way-stations and amenities Lead: LPF Lead: LPF & AMBC G&O Trail signage L Supporting: City a Supporting: City (Rail with Trail) • Compile donated goods and services • Volunteers available for special a projects and connections for G&O • Construction underway and completed
Connect Battlefield • Develop plans for improvements at Chapman Highway and Moody Avenue Facilitate inclusion of key intersections in Chapman Highway Lead: City Engineering, coordination with TDOT, Loop and the Proposed • • Lead: City M G&O Trail Across • Study possible connections at Blount Avenue or a possible separated pedestrian bridge crossing Supporting: Aslan public input • Consider integrating a small UW welcome center as part of G&O crossing as gateway to the UW Chapman Highway • Engineering, coordination with TDOT, public input, land acquisition, Connect Fort Dickerson, • Initial connectivity/alignment identi- coordination with utilities and rail- Lead: Aslan and City Coordinate connection from Scottish Lead: Aslan fied Lead: AMBC & Aslan Lead: AMBC & Aslan road N High Ground, Fort Stanley Pike to River Bluff Park Support: LPF • Design for Cherokee Cove Trail con- Supporting: City Supporting: City a Supporting: and River Bluff Parks nection • Trail construction and maintenance, AMBC connect through Cherokee Cove into High Ground Park a • Easements and design finalized Cherokee Farms/ O UT Medical Center $ • Continue and complete construction Trail Connection • Seek funding • Start construction
The Fort Dickerson, High Ground, and Battlefield Loop and the Proposed River Bluff Park Connection G&O Trail Crossing (Chapman Highway)
Images from Knoxville Battlefield Loop Plan, Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness Sanders Pace Architecture and PORT 4-Year Implementation Plan 19 Urbanism, 2016 Design Guide Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 4-Year Implementation Plan 20 Overview of Components The design guide contains several key components: The Urban »» An inventory of existing graphics used already within Existing Physical Conditions the Urban Wilderness and among the partners in the effort. The existing conditions of Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness as a “destination” vary greatly and are a byproduct of separate entities working on different projects over many years. Coordinating these environmental graphics will help signal to residents and visitors »» An evaluation of the materials used within various Wilderness that the Urban Wilderness is a cohesive collection of parks, open spaces, historic sites, and recreational opportunities. Ultimately, a locations within Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness. well conceived system for the Urban Wilderness will place this location on par with some of the most dynamic outdoor experiences »» A material palette that recommends consistent in the United States. elements that can be used across a variety of locations Design Guide within the area without compromising the uniqueness Overall Context: Currently, South Knoxville consists of a mixture of uses that center on the traditional suburban style corridor of each location. of Chapman Highway, a collection of neighborhoods of varying incomes and housing styles, more “exurban” uses outside of »» A signage plan that looks at primary gateways, neighborhoods on old roadways, and various parks and attractions within the district. Purpose and Need secondary gateways, location signs, and key wayfinding signs that can be deployed over a four- There are several major institutions in the area including the Tennessee School for the Deaf, the Ijams Nature Center, and the Like many efforts of this nature, each partner brings their year period. This signage plan has a hierarchy and former Baptist Hospital that is being redeveloped into the headquarters for Regal Cinemas. own identity system into play. The City of Knoxville has a well priority system that allows partners to implement this The natural areas within the Urban Wilderness, with the notable exception of a few parks and the Ijams Nature center are not well executed city brand, Ijams Nature Center is undergoing a re- over time and in coordination with existing efforts. signed and are difficult to locate for outsiders. imaging process that will introduce new gateways and signs, »» “Do and don’t” tips to help guide implementation. and the Legacy Parks Foundation has a brand system designed These tips show both examples from other locations to showcase all of the outdoor opportunities in the metropolitan and mock-ups for the Urban Wilderness that will help area. The Urban Wilderness itself has a brand identity that has decision makers through implementation. Gateways: already been successfully deployed in environmental graphics, »» Thematic recommendations revolving around four The Urban Wilderness itself has no gateway identification at any promotional pieces, partnership efforts, and online. key themes: exploration, recreation, preservation, entryway into the area. A visitor from outside of the area (and These themes overlap in many of Through the process of this four-year planning effort, and conservation. even Knoxville residents) have no sense that they have crossed the Urban Wilderness locations and can be an effective several needs have been identified. They are: a threshold into what is defined as the Urban Wilderness. way to organize visits for various audiences. »» Retain partner identity. Each of the partners in the »» Finally, the design guide contains a series of (Image right) Gay Street is the best pedestrian/bicycle connection Urban Wilderness needs to be able to identify as part of recommendations for the partners in Knoxville’s into the Urban Wilderness area. An overhead structure at the south the partnership without compromising their own brand Urban Wilderness to consider through a four year side of the bridge provides opportunity for gateway signage. identity. This need varies by partner but carries across the implementation time frame. While South Knoxville has an aging sign at the area. Image bottom right) southeastern corner of the intersection of Chapman Highway and »» Visual unity. Each of the locations within the Urban Blount Street, there are no other gateway signs Wilderness have the opportunity to reflect a consistent to the area. identity or marquee that lets visitors know they are in an Urban Wilderness location. »» Recognition. Residents of Knoxville and visitors to the region need to be able to better navigate among the collection of assets within the Urban Wilderness and to understand the four themes that carry through the area: exploration, recreation, preservation, and conservation. This will require some consistency of environmental graphics that can be deployed over time. This design guide is a toolbox that gives direction to the partners of Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness by providing a consistent image for the individual elements of Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness while preserving the uniqueness of each amenity within the area.
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 21 4-Year Implementation Plan Existing Physical Conditions Entryway and Interpretive Signs: Signage in the Urban Wilderness varies greatly. Major Other parks within the Urban Wilderness have traditional attractions like Ijams Nature Park have attractive (if temporary) Knoxville City parks signs that consist of etched wood posts. gateway signs, thorough interpretive signs, and the first Several parks also have no indication that they are part of the start of implementing the Urban Wilderness brand at kiosks. Urban Wilderness (and a few have little to no signage). The Fort Dickerson has a historic marker and a highway sign on Urban Wilderness branding has been implemented at Baker Chapman Highway but no indication of its inclusion in the Creek Preserve, IC King Park, and at other key trailheads. Urban Wilderness. High Ground Park has attractive gateway signs and interpretive panels that begin to set a standard for other locations, but has yet to integrate UW branding.
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 4-Year Implementation Plan 22 Existing Physical Conditions
Auto-wayfinding Signs: Knoxville has recently implemented a comprehensive downtown wayfinding plan. While this plan does a good job of navigating visitors through downtown Knoxville, it does not include, nor does it continue into the Urban Wilderness. Auto- wayfinding in the Urban Wilderness is nearly non-existent with the notable exception of signs directing visitors to the Ijams Nature Center. Even these signs are inconsistent and are placed in ways that do not connect Ijams to other attractions. New parks such as High Ground Park have no wayfinding and don’t include signals that entryways to the park exist.
Materials: Existing materials in the Urban Wilderness, while varied depending on the location, show a remarkable ability to be compatible over the entire district.
»» Stacked and rough cut stone is used in parks like Fort Dickerson and High Ground Park. Stacked stone is an excellent way to show continuity within the district on primary and secondary gateway signs. Rough-cut limestone is also plentiful in South Knoxville and pays homage to the Urban Wilderness’ heritage. »» Wood posts are used in a variety of locations and, while An Homage to the Past they vary in condition, can be a simple material to use in other locations in the Urban Wilderness. Many visual elements from the limestone industry days of South Knoxville »» Split rail fencing is evident in several locations (most can be utilized in future signage and design elements, from the rough cut notably at High Ground Park). Split rail fencing shows limestone to the architectural vernacular of the quarries. both a rustic and historic look. »» Corten metal is used at Ijams Nature Center with strong effect and in the kiosks for gateways to the Urban Wilderness.
Sign Clutter: Over time individual signs have accumulated on posts in the area resulting in sign clutter and difficult navigation through the district. Within parks in the Urban Wilderness, regulatory signs have also accumulated and show no consistency.
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 23 4-Year Implementation Plan Design Elements Precedent Guides Do’s & Don’ts
This style guide relies on elements from existing style guides already in place. The goal is to unify guidance from the Urban Wilderness Logo Do not change the color of the Urban Wilderness signs. The maroon and other Pantone colors defined should Usage Guidelines, the Outdoor Knoxville Logo & Identity Usage Guidelines, and the Urban Wilderness Signage Style Guide. This cohesive remain consistent throughout the district and on all signs and printed material. approach also reaches out to citywide identity systems and the Visit Knoxville green. This style guide also takes cues from Sanders Pace Architecture Knoxville Battlefield Loop Framework Strategy and Recommendations. Do not change the language on the signs. In all cases, the approved use would be: Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness or Urban Wilderness, using the typeface accordingly. Do not use the logo design as an arrow pointer for signs. Do seek consistent brand treatment along existing signs. Do add amenity signs at existing parks. Do encourage partners to participate in the sign design.
logo usage guidelines
D R A F T 7/14/16
ASLAN FOUNDATION LOGO & IDENTITY USAGE GUIDELINES KNOXVILLE
BATTLEFIELD LOOP TASK 02 : FRAMEWORK STRATEGY + RECOMMENDATIONS July 14th, 2016—Aslan + Sanders Pace + PORT: Task 02 Report—DRAFT
prepared by robin easter design Activity Icons/Park Amenities 132 West Jackson avenue, Knoxville, tn 37902 // 865-524-0146 // www.robineaster.com
PREPARED BY ROBIN EASTER DESIGN 132 WEST JACKSON AVE KNOXVILLE, TN 37902 865-524-0146 Activity Icons were pulled from the Outdoor Knoxville branding to demonstrate potential activities and amenities found within the WWW.ROBINEASTER.COM individual parks. These examples include running/walking, climbing, hiking, biking, kayaking, swimming, as well as whether pets are permitted.
Typeface Color Palette The typefaces used in the system are as follows: A broad color palette was created by combining existing elements found in the existing Brand Berthold Akzidenz is used in marketing material. Style Guidelines for the Urban Wilderness, and Knoxville Outdoors, as well as Urban Wilderness The custom typeface for the Urban Wilderness is used strictly for the logo Trail System Style Guide and the City of Knoxville. These colors represent the natural elements itself. found within the park system and combine in numerous complimentary and contrasting ways. For wayfinding signs, Federal regulations require that a reflective typeface Highway Gothic be used for attractions on the signs.
Pantone 7428 C Pantone 464 C Pantone 308 C Pantone 669 C Pantone 7743 C
Pantone 177 C Pantone 130 C Pantone 311 C Pantone 583 C Pantone 362 C
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 4-Year Implementation Plan 24 Material Recommendations
Based on existing material usage and the integral relationship with the surrounding natural environment the Urban Wilderness enjoys, a selection of natural and historical elements is the most appropriate when building gateways, entry signs, kiosks and other park related structures. The materials listed below can be executed more formally or casually depending on the nature of the attraction. A larger more formal location may use the more refined elements below while a smaller location may be more informal and natural. Ultimately, the final design of each sign is going to depend on the character and amenities of the individual park, the design aesthetic prescribed by the agency managing the park, and their budgetary allowances. On the following pages, examples are shown for an array of options utilizing a variety of the recommended materials.
Corten Quarried/Rough Cut Stone Wood Corten is a unique metal that allows for an oxidized patina to Quarried limestone has a historical significance and provides Wood adds a warmth and approachability to kiosks and form on it while retaining structural integrity for many years. It a very unique and recognizable texture to the building gateway signs. Weathered or stained wood can be used for adds a rustic, industrial texture. Corten can also be laser cut palette. gateway signs, kiosks, gates, and other structures along with for signage letter or for patterns/forms. An alternative for sign the other materials to create balance in the natural elements. frame posts to Corten is a steel powder-coated brown, which Pressure treated wood is recommended for all posts. is often much cheaper. Sandblasted wood (shown in middle images) is a common signage material, and can be done in such a way to create relief, smooth and rough surfaces. If the wood is treated with paint or stain, it typically has a long life span. »» Provide neighborhood groups access to an open sourced file system that allows them to use the Urban Wilderness brand in neighborhood meetings, on signs, and in community marketing. This will engender community pride of place for neighborhoods that are part of the district.
»» Continue to deploy the “partner” program with private sector businesses. Consider licensing the Urban Wilderness Logo to partners and through a review process. The more people wear, use, and promote the brand, the more recognition will be built for the UW. Aluminum Stacked Stone »» Deploy a brand style guide that provides a “Rules to the Aluminum can be used for simple and durable sign panels. Stacked stone is used in abundance and provides a broad Road” for using the Knoxville Urban Wilderness brand It can also be cut for sign lettering adding depth to the signs array of possible uses from curbing and retaining walls, to system. The current guide provides rules for trail systems and and greater contrast when ground lighting is used. sign footers, and many other uses. should be expanded to the entire system.
»» Deploy the “toolbox” included as part of this program. All of the files generated through this project will be available on a cloud link in five different file formats for each implementation piece.
»» As part of the “Urban Wilderness Summit” , provide updates on progress within the area. Include both marketing and on-the-ground successes.
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 25 4-Year Implementation Plan Gateway & Entrance Planting Recommendations
Planting Enhancement: Planting Suggestions: Planting and vegetation are a more subtle but still significant part of the »» Soft textured grasses: Little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium material palette. Plantings when combined with hardscape elements should ‘The Blues’), Blue Gama grass (Bouteloua gracilis ‘Blond Ambition’), Red help to aid in recognition of, and support visual unity throughout, the Urban switchgrass (Panicum virgatum ‘Hot Rod’) Wilderness. Planting enhancement creates ground plan interest to draw the »» Flowering groundcovers with decorative foilage: Leadwort eye in and helps to reinforce the signage and branding. (Ceratostigma plumbaginoides), Moss Phlox (Phlox subulata), Creeping All supplemental planting should incorporate the following: St. John’s Wort (Hypericum calycinum), Coral Bells (Heuchera spp.) »» Flowering perennials: Black-eyed Susan (Rudbekia fulgida or hirta), »» Plant masses to create a simplified, supportive base for signage Blazing star (Liatris spicata ‘Kobold’), Wild indigo (Baptisia ‘SolarFlare’ »» Limited plant selection will create continuity throughout the and ‘Midnight’ Prairie Blues), Salvia (Salvia nemerosa ‘Blue Hill’) Community Urban Wilderness and aid in recognition when combined with hardscape elements »» Masses of complementary color to reinforce and harmonize with Collaboration signage color schemes »» Flashes of contrasting color for locations with heightened need for Recommendations visibility and interest »» Drought tolerant and low-maintenance to reduce maintenance needs »» Seasonal interest plantings to include plant color and texture throughout the year »» Native and naturalized plants to strengthen “sense of place”
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 4-Year Implementation Plan 26 The Urban Wilderness Signage Suite
Gateway Signage Auto-wayfinding Auto-wayfinding (Urban Wilderness-wide) (Park Specific)
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 27 4-Year Implementation Plan HAROLD LAMBERT OVERLOOK
OPEN DAWN TILL DUSK
Park Entrance Sign Attraction Entry Sign Primary Trailhead Kiosk Attraction Sign & Trail Secondary Trailhead Kiosk Sign
Signage Style previously designated in Trail System Signage Style Guide
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Gateways should have some of the following unified features:
»» Prominent use of the Urban Wilderness brand mark (the leaf) as a visual symbol that can be used, even without words »» Large scale, where the height is at least twice the height of a human, and stands out in a street landscape
Materials: Dimensions:
Wood To be determined Corten (laser cut leaf)
Quarried Stone
Sandblasted wood sign
Materials: Dimensions:
Wood To be determined Sandblasted wood sign (Top) example of stainless steel Corten (laser cut screen, welded into with corten screen, (Bottom) box form or stand alone screen) example of lettering or logo Stainless steel (laser cut leaf) attachment
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 4-Year Implementation Plan 30 Primary/District Gateway
Using the Tennessee River as a Gateway into the Urban Wilderness Making a statement The Gay Street Bridge in particular provides an opportunity for a banner that serve as a gateway into the Urban Wilderness.
Business/Secondary Gateways Businesses and roads can serve as gateways into the district. The sign below can be adapted for business to incorporate, or this sign can serve as an alternative gateway feature.
This option is recommended at areas where the scale will not be dwarfed by a wide street like Chapman Highway.
Proposed
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 31 4-Year Implementation Plan Park Entrance Sign Existing Medium to Large Park Entrance Signs
For park entrances, three options are presented. All show a Materials: Dimensions: stacked stone column and base with post and beam mounts. Wood To be determined Corten or sandblasted The two larger options show a sandblasted wood sign, wood sign incorporating the logo and name of the park. For city/county Stacked Stone parks, the logo could be included above the name. Vinyl or Aluminum Overlay for lettering/ A corten sign could use laser cut vinyl or aluminum lettering logo (on Corten sign) applied by adhesive. Adhesive vinyl can be cut from a reflective stock allowing more sign visibility between dusk and dawn, while cut aluminum lettering would provide more depth if ground lighting is to be installed.
Laser-cut Corten would be placed on the column, with a pressure-treated lighter wood backing to make the logo “pop.” Optional Corten Sign
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 4-Year Implementation Plan 32 Attraction Entry Sign Existing For Smaller Parks or Major Attractions Within Parks
These smaller signs can be used for smaller parks or for specific attractions within larger parks. The frame can be built using wood, pressure treated wood beams, or powder coated metal beams. A stone base can be incorporated if desired.
The sign panel can be made of aluminum, sandblasted wood, or fiberglass/high pressure laminate.
The sign panel uses the primary font and also allows for the use of icons depicting what activities can be found within the park. More detail about sign panel design can be found in the Urban Wilderness Signage Style Guide. Proposed
Materials: Wood Powder coated metal or Dimensions: wood beams 10’ Tall Stone base (optional) 4’ Wide Aluminum/wood/ or 2’ Deep fiberglass panel
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 33 4-Year Implementation Plan Attraction Sign/Secondary Trailhead Kiosk For Smaller Parks and Informational Kiosks Existing These smaller signs can be used for smaller parks or for specific attractions within larger parks. They can be built using wood or corten and can also incorporate a stone footer if desired. The sign panel uses the primary font and also allows for the use of icons depicting what activities can be found within the park. More detail about sign panel design can be found in the Urban Wilderness Signage Style Guide.
HAROLD LAMBERT OVERLOOK Proposed
OPEN DAWN TILL DUSK
Materials: Wood/Corten/ or Powder Dimensions: coated Steel Beams 8’ Tall Aluminum or Fiberglass 4’ Wide Panel 2’ Deep Stone base (optional)
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 4-Year Implementation Plan 34 Auto-wayfinding Auto-wayfinding signs are an integral part of the overall implementation of Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness. These signs do not need to mimic those that have been successfully deployed in downtown Knoxville, but rather should be simple Materials: signs mounted on regular poles that follow MUTCD guidelines Aluminum laser cut sign for signs. added to top or bottom of auto-wayfinding signs Primary Trailblazers like the one illustrated to the left Dimensions: Vary would occur along major highways in the Urban Wilderness. Aluminum wayfinding signs They would point out major attractions. Primary trailblazers (blue signs) manufactured should remain auto oriented but in some cases may by the City of Knoxville incorporate bike or pedestrian oriented signs.
Secondary Trailblazers would happen on roads where the MUTCD guidelines are less stringent. They would allow for smaller cap-heights, a more compact sign, and in some cases more than three destinations. The sign illustrated here shows the Ijams logo and a series of attractions. This sign would Primary Trailblazers occur within Ijams nature center.
The final sign would be a demarcation sign that indicates arrival at a specific destination. These signs would indicate where to turn for the main entrance into a location within the Urban Wilderness and would complement the gateway signs.
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 35 4-Year Implementation Plan 4-Year Implementation Plan 35 Secondary Trailblazers
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 4-Year Implementation Plan 36 Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 37 4-Year Implementation Plan Funding the Plan
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 4-Year Implementation Plan 38 transportation system or provide a substantial benefit to the nation, region or metropolitan area in which the project is located. Source: US DOT Prioritizing Funding website. Funding Schedule
Tiger Grant 2016 Application Timeline: There is a prerequisite YEAR 1 YEAR 2 YEAR 3 YEAR 4 (July 1, 2019-June 30, (July 1, 2020-June 30, Determining How to Spend Public Dollars to register to apply on www.grants.gov opening in February. Allow (Present-June 30, 2018) (July 1, 2018-June 30, 2019) 2020) 2021) 2-4 weeks to process; grant applications are usually due April Implement This plan identifies where funding is needed, with the assumption that there will Wayfinding & 29th. Transportation Planning Organizations/Regional Planning URBAN Gateways be a combination of City, State, philanthropic, and possibly even Federal dollars $ $ $ $ Organizations do not play a formal role in selecting or submitting WILDERNESS Develop Cooperative to make this plan happen. When determining what projects will have the biggest these applications. However, TPO’s are certainly an excellent resource Partnership (UW)-WIDE Structure $ impact, and to prioritize funding needs, consider the following factors: for guidance and technical assistance. PROJECTS Expand Tourism/Local Visitor Marketing and Further Economic Development »» Does it meet most of the goals of the Urban Wilderness?
»» Does it provide for a large and broad diversity of users? TDOT Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) – Applications are River Bluff THE Park Wildlife Area »» Is it a collaborative project with several partnering organizations? annually submitted from local government agencies or a combination $ BATTLEFIELD »» Does it connect and increase access to the Urban Wilderness? of eligible agencies for the federal aid available from Federal Highway Fort Dickerson Park »» Is there a direct link to an increase in health because of the project Administration (FHWA). The program has a complex and lengthy process LOOP $ $ a
»» Are there economic and tourism benefits that will result from the project? (up to 3 years from award date) to reach construction phase. Funds 80% Mead’s Quarry » ? of construction costs on a reimbursement basis. Eligible projects are for IJAMS Improvements/ » Does it increase awareness of the Urban Wilderness Overall Master $ $ a $ »» Does it leverage funding to match several funding sources, from federal, construction only of bicycle and pedestrian off-road paths, sidewalks, main NATURE Planning state, local, or private dollars? street improvements and landscaping. While TAP projects are not capped CENTER River Access/Paddling/ Programming $ a by TDOT, it is noted on their website’s Frequently Asked Questions that IC King Park “the average TAP project award is approximately $350,000. In order to be PARKS Expansion cost effective, projects should exceed $250/$350k and rarely will any single (EXPANSIONS OR NEW—OTHER THAN Develop Gateway phase be awarded in excess of $1 million.” BATTLEFIELD LOOP at James White Parkway $ a Funding Sources PARKS) a TAP State Program Application Timeline: The application cycle is open from July 1 to October 3 each year until 3:00 p.m. Central G&O NEW Trail $ a a Standard time. All local governmental agencies, including those within Assessment of Federal and State Funding GREENWAYS/ Connect the the Memphis, Nashville, Chattanooga, and Knoxville MPOs/TPOs, may Battlefield Loop Availability TRAILS Across submit an application to the State competitive program. Chapman Hwy CONNECTIVITY Connect Fort Dickerson, High Ground, and a Federal and State Existing Funding Possibilities River Bluff Parks TAP Regional Application Timeline: The Knoxville Regional Cherokee Farms/ UT Medical Center Identified for Greenways, Trails and Parks: Transportation Planning Organization is in the process of approving a slate Trail Connection $ a of projects for FY 16-18 funding. Staff report that it will probably be another two years before they issue another call for projects unless some the USDOT Tiger Grants – On 7/29/16 U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx approved projects fall through. Funding Accomplishment or announced that nearly $500 million will be made available for transportation $ Need a Project Completed projects across the country from the 2016 Transportation Investment Generating Regional Surface Transportation Block Grant (RSTB): Funds are Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant program. The highly competitive TIGER programmed through the Regional TPO and can be used for any project grant program supports innovative projects, including multi-modal and multi- that would also qualify for the TAP funding as described above. mini-grant applications that provides assistance to schools and communities to support safety jurisdictional projects, which are difficult to fund through traditional federal education and encouragement for walking & biking to school. Examples of eligible funding programs. This year’s awards focus on capital projects that generate economic Note: The Knoxville Regional Transportation Planning Organization has include student safety patrol, pedestrian education campaigns, Walk to School Day events, development and improve access to reliable, safe and affordable transportation developed its Draft Transportation Improvement Program (Plan) for 2017- Bike to School day events, Walking School Bus or Bike Train Programs and Bike Rodeos. for communities, both urban and rural. The 2016 Tiger Grant Awards will improve 2020 which is available on their website & includes several greenway, Maximum grants are $5,000 per school. No funding match is permitted. safety and economic opportunity in two U.S. territories, 32 states, and 40 pedestrian/bike and Chapman Hwy improvement projects for Knoxville communities across the country. The TN Department of Transportation was and Knox County that utilize TAP and RSTB funding among others. SRTS Mini Grant Application Timeline: Applications are available November 11th, awarded $10 million for completion of 16 miles of the Foothills Parkway to provide and are due January 31st. Workshop training will be held in Knoxville. Preregistration is required. Grant applications must be submitted by local governments that are either cities a new link that increases access to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park TDOT Safe Routes to Schools – The Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program is a federally funded grant program focused on increasing levels or counties. Regional agencies, PTO’s, bike clubs, non-profits & other organizational can Note: USDOT’s website states that successful TIGER projects leverage resources, of walking and bicycling to school among elementary and middle school partner with local government to submit applications. A letter of endorsement from the encourage partnership, catalyze investment and growth, fill a critical void in the students. For 2017 Fiscal Year the SRTS Mini-Grant Program will fund school district is required.
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 39 4-Year Implementation Plan 4-Year Implementation Plan 39 TDEC Recreational Trails Program (RTP) – RTP grants are 80% grants and have a Phase 1 was completed in 2010 and Phase 2 is underway, which began Private Sector Support 20% match and may be used for both natural and hard surfaced trails located only in 2011. The project is a public/private partnership managed by the Wolf on publicly owned land. On road or sidewalk projects are not eligible. 15% of the River Conservancy. Private Foundations identified that fund the specific program areas grant may be spent on acquisition, engineering and grant administration and 85% • Tims Ford State Park Accessible Trail – A 1.1-mile Marble Plains Loop Trail that is of Environment, Healthy Lifestyles, Economic Development Projects must go toward construction. The focus of the RTP is to create connections in parks, ADA accessible to an overlook in Tims Ford State Park in Winchester, TN. (Tourism), & Historical Preservation in Knox County: to schools, work, retail and other locations as multi modal opportunities across the state of Tennessee. The maximum grant amount for Tennessee RTP grants has been There are considerable state and federal resources available. However, $200,000 with a minimum grant of $20,000. Conclusion: Foundations in Knox County: as expected, all such resources are through competitive grants. TDOT funds must be for transportation purposes – trails or sidewalks that get people from Point A to Point TDEC RTP Application Timeline: Each eligible applicant was allowed to According to the most recent data available (Filings for 2013 2014 Fiscal Year) from submit one RTP application for the 2016 RTP grant cycle. All applications B and be accessible – not just recreational. The Urban Institutes’s National Center for Charitable Statistics there are 77 private had to be received at the TDEC Recreational Education Services main office As noted in the examples listed above, projects can be achieved when combined foundations listed in Knox County. The majority have stated specific interest areas in Nashville by 4 pm Central Standard Time on April 22nd. A complete with local government funding, private dollars from corporate and/or private for their giving that are unrelated to the UW initiatives. There are perhaps eight that application manual is available on the TDEC website. foundations, and crowd- sourcing fundraising appeals. either have been or could be a potential funding partner for the right UW project— given their financial resources, stated interest areas and/or demonstrated past giving. TDEC Local Park & Recreation Fund (LPRF) – Available to local governments The most likely state & federal funding sources applicable to Urban Wilderness Those include: on a two-year grant cycle. Recreational greenway and trail facilities can be Projects are: constructed with this funding program and eligible projects include land • acquisition, rail development and capital projects in parks, natural areas, and TDOT’s Transportation Alternatives State Competitive Grant Program which Aslan Foundation: A partner in this UW strategic planning initiative, Aslan has greenways. At least 60 percent of the funds allocated will go to municipal governments has a complex and lengthy process that can take up to 3 years from award already significantly invested in the UW’s development to date with Higher Ground as authorized by TCA 67-4-409. All grant projects must be on publicly owned land. date to reach the construction phase of a project. Park, Ft. Dickerson and Fort Higley, and is currently developing their own strategic plan for future funding priorities and projects. Therefore it is expected that Aslan can Maximum grant awards are $500,000 and minimum are $25,000. • TDOT’s Safe Routes to Schools (100% funding) and will play a major funding role in their UW projects over the next four years. • TDEC’s Recreational Trails Program (80-20 match); TDEC LPRF Application Timeline: For 2016 grants an application workshop Seven Islands Foundation: Seven Islands Foundation (Pete & Linda Claussen) has was held in early December 2015. . All applications had to be RECEIVED at • TDEC’s Local Park and Recreation Fund (50-50 match). also been a partner investing in land preservation/conservation in and around the TDEC’s Recreational Education Services main office in Nashville by 4 pm Central UW area including Seven Islands State Birding Park and Ijams Nature Center. Currently Standard Time on April 22nd. A complete application manual is also available For the short-term UW strategic plan of four years, the less likely sources are: the Claussen family, owners of the Gulf & Ohio Railroad, is working with Legacy Parks on the TDEC website. • US DOT’s Tiger Grant Program which funds multi-million dollar projects, to develop the G&O Rail with Trail project—a three mile multi-use trail from Chapman requires 50-50 match, and usually requires multiple years of applications to Highway to Mead’s Quarry and the South Loop Trails of the Urban Wilderness. Examples of public-private partnership projects in Tennessee that have been secure an award. accomplished with funding from their local governments, a variety of TDOT and The Haslam Family Foundation, Clayton Family Foundation, Haslam 3 TDEC grants, and private dollars per Bob Richards, TDEC Trails and Greenways • TDOT’s Multi-Modal Access Fund – $30 million was set-aside from state Foundation, & Charis Foundation: Each of these Foundations have considerable Coordinator, include: gas tax revenue for 2014-16 for new state-funded programs, but was not assets and have very generously funded a wide variety of community projects in extended in the 2016-17 state budget. If it is resurrected by the Governor the past and could potentially be a funding partner for the right piece of a project. and General Assembly it would again be a source to support transportation However, the UW projects more than likely may be outside of their priority areas of • Chattanooga River Walk – Now known as the Tennessee Riverpark, this needs of transit users, pedestrians, and bicyclists through infrastructure interest, but certainly not out of the question. greenway currently has 8 miles open to the public and follows the south bank projects that address existing gaps along state routes. Multi-modal grants William B. Stokely Jr. Foundation: This foundation has considerably smaller total of the Tennessee River. A footbridge on the west end (near John Ross Bridge/ were available to cities and counties as a 95% grant to 5% hard cash match, assets however the Stokely Foundation lists historical preservation as an area of Market St. SR 8) takes you to the north bank and Coolidge Park. Eligible projects include bicycle/pedestrian connections with transit, focus. • Memphis Greenways – connecting sidewalk gaps, adding bike lanes on or connecting to a state • Shelby Farms Greenline - A 6.5-mile bike lane connecting Midtown route, or creating a transit hub. Private Foundation Application Timelines: For the most part applications for Memphis, just on the other side of Overton Park, to Shelby Farms; various projects are accepted on an ongoing basis. Individual inquiries should The 4-Year Strategic Plan for Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness should enable the UW • Bike Arch into Overton Park Bike Plaza; be made to determine timeline for project applications. • Overton Park Conservancy RTP Trail; partners to develop a cooperative approach to seeking other state and federal • Broad Street to Tillman Connector (renamed The Hampline) – A 2 mile resources for the highest priority “big-ticket” projects each year. This collaboration connection between Overton Park and Shelby Farms Greenline; should ensure that the partners’ different projects are much less likely to be • Wolf River Bridge & Wolf River Connector – A corridor of protected green competing against each other for funds, and it increases opportunities to achieve space along the Wolf River, which includes a paved pathway for non- success in securing those resources. motorized transportation. It is being constructed in sections and will eventually extend a total of 30 miles to connect neighborhoods from downtown Memphis through the cities of Germantown and Collierville.
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 4-Year Implementation Plan 40 Corporate and Community Foundations Trinity Health Foundation of East Tennessee - Formerly known as the Mercy Private Corporate Partners/Investors: Major businesses located in South Health Partners Foundation, Trinity was established when Mercy Health Partners Knoxville in and around the Urban Wilderness may be potential partners and/or investors in UW projects that enhance the amenities that impact their employees’ Alcoa Foundation – An environmental project of this type is one of the foundations was sold to a for-profit system and contains the assets of St. Mary’s and Baptist primary areas of interest. Therefore, it is feasible that a grant could potentially be Hospitals’ foundations. Healthy Life Choices is one of their five health initiatives, or residents’ quality of life including wellness, additional commercial, residential and secured. Grants range from $15,000 - $50,000 and could be multi-year (up to 3 years), and grants are solicited annually. tourism related development. if successful metrics are reached each year. The largest past gift given was $3 million. Note: Legacy Parks Foundation has been selected for a Trinity 2016 Phase I Large Major Employers in South Knoxville Grant Award of $15,000 for planning the development of Baker Creek Preserve Park. Alcoa Foundation Application Timeline: The grant cycle begins early in the Upon completion of the project plan, Legacy Parks will be eligible to compete for a . Regal Entertainment Corporate Headquarters first quarter of the calendar year. Phase II Implementation Grant of up to $150,000. . University of Tennessee Medical Center East Tennessee Foundation – Currently the East Tennessee Foundation’s grants program is location and focus area specific. In Knox County it appears that their Baker Creek Preserve is connected to South Doyle Middle School by way of the new . Major Developers of Residential/Commercial Properties only applicable fund is Economic Development Fund of East TN and those grants are Baker Creek Trail and intersecting Cherokee Trail. Both trails connect the school capped at $7,900 for one year which could only serve as gap funding for one project. directly into the Urban Wilderness and adjacent neighborhoods. The Bike Park . Manufacturing businesses located in Forks of the River Industrial Park including However, the Foundation can also assist by looking at their donor-advised funds to and adventure play structures planned will encourage fun, challenging physical Keurig Green Mountain Coffee, Melaeuca Inc., Aqua Chem, Fresenius Medical Care identify anyone with particular interest in the environment and health. activities for the students. North America, and Republic Plastics. In-kind support can be a good option for smaller companies to participate in Humana Foundation: Knoxville is one of the locations chosen by the Humana Conclusion: Corporate and private foundations supporting projects are supporting projects. Examples of corporate in-kind support could be donation or Foundation for the opportunities to increase impact on community health & well- generally focused on a specific geographic service area based on either the a significant discount of materials or services; or conducting volunteer workdays being in 2017. The funding priorities are healthy behaviors, health education and location of residence or their corporate headquarter location and/or where on a portion of the trail. All types of opportunities also exist for smaller corporate access to health Services and projects seeking funds must be aligned with one or they do business. Further most Foundations limit their contributions to specific sponsorships of materials, benches, pavers, markers and signage as cited in the more of these focus area. The Humana Foundation also has a multi-year partnership areas of focus. Specific foundation support available is limited to the examples Tweetsie Trail case study. with KaBoom!, a national non-profit building safe and active play places across cited above. While foundation support will play a role in the amount of funding America and could be a resource for park playground development. potential possible, it will most likely augment project funding to fill in gaps for a Vendors of Products, Equipment & Services for trail construction, recreation, specific piece(s) of a project that fits their niche, and/or help to provide matching hospitality (food, drink, and lodging) is most often offered as support through retail Humana Application Timeline: Letters of Intent will be accepted from December required to secure federal or state funding. promotions, initiatives and partnerships. 1 – December 15, 2016, & selected organizations will be invited to submit on-line While a number of private resources have been identified grant applications during the month of January 2017. Conclusion: Private Grassroots Support Opportunities: as potential funders, it is most likely that the major funding sources for the Blue Cross Blue Shield of TN: There are several programs, including Giving infrastructure projects will be the local, state and federal sources augmented by Arms/Tennessee Health Foundation, with focus areas of funding for projects that private sources. emphasize healthy living, health care access and quality of life. The Community Social Media Fundraising via Crowdsourcing Sites - IOBY (In Our Back Yard) Trust’s focus areas including economic and community development. There is also was the site used by supporters of The Hampline Project in Memphis to raise corporate sponsorships, which include employee volunteers and in-kind donations. $70,000 in a few months to fill the gap of funding needed to break ground on “The The majority of support appears to occur in Chattanooga, Nashville and Memphis. Hamp” connector. Average gifts were $50; however, many people gave $9.01. The Memphis area code inspired this amount. This project could do $8.65 to mirror our Blue Cross Blue Shield of TN Application Timeline: Inquiries are accepted area code. Another strategy asked individuals to sponsor one foot of the trail for on an on-going basis. Submit a cover letter to determine eligibility. If invited to $55. proceed applicant must submit application within 30 days. Review & Approval Process can take up to three months. Friends Group – Legacy Parks Foundation has a well- established Friends fundraising base that supports their work and assists specific projects as well as The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation - With the sole mission of improving fundraising events. health and health care, one of the foundation’s programs that could well be tapped for a greenway project such as this is the $25,000 Culture of Health Prize. It is Grass-Roots Partnerships - Legacy Parks Foundation can and will continue to awarded annually to 10 communities with projects chosen to foster change and seek partnerships with well-established grassroots organizations serving children improvement in the culture of health. and youth, i.e. Boys & Girls Clubs of East TN, Emerald Youth Foundation, and others interested in collaborative initiatives within the Urban Wilderness and surrounding RWJ Foundation Application Timeline: Phase I -November 3, 2016 (3 p.m. inner city area. ET) Phase I Applications (for all applicant communities) due; Phase II-December 9, 2016 Invitations extended to select applicant communities to submit Phase Sales to Large and Small Companies of Naming Rights for amenities provided II Applications- January 20, 2017 (3 p.m. ET) - Phase II Applications (for invited along the trails, in parks and destination areas. This may include trail markers, communities). Awards will be announced in Fall 2017. benches, bridges, etc. Friends of The Tweetsie Trail in Johnson City, TN raised $45,000 by offering naming rights for $300 sponsorships of a 4 foot bench to be placed on the Trail. Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness 41 4-Year Implementation Plan