The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan
As Amended through November 2011 (See the List of Amendments of the back of this page.)
Adopted by: The Knoxville-Knox County Metropolitan Planning Commission on December 10, 2009 The Knox County Commission on January 25, 2010 The Knoxville City Council on January 26, 2010, and amended on January 25, 2011
Prepared by the Metropolitan Planning Commission for the Knoxville Parks and Recreation Department and the Knox County Parks and Recreation Department
Prepared for: The City of Knoxville, Tennessee, Bill Haslam, Mayor Knox County, Tennessee, Mike Ragsdale, Mayor List of Amendments:
April 2011: This plan was amended by the adoption of the Inskip Small Area Plan. Additions were made to pages 39-40 and the map on page 22 was updated.
November 2011: This plan was amended by the adoption of the South City Sector Plan. The text on page 42 was changed to match the sector plan text and the maps on pages 22 and 43 were updated. Table of Contents
Mission Statements...... 5 Maps Concepts: A Framework for the Plan...... 21 I. Introduction...... 7 Countywide Existing and Proposed Greenways...... 22 II. Park Types, Inventory and Assessment of Parks and Recreation Central City Sector...... 34 Facilities...... 11 East City Sector...... 36 III. Guiding Principles and Policies...... 19 North City Sector...... 38 IV. Plan Proposals: Greenways and Natural Areas...... 23 Northwest City Sector...... 41 South City Sector...... 43 V. Recreation Facilities...... 27 West City Sector...... 45 VI. Plan Recommendations—City Sectors...... 33 East County Sector...... 48 VII. Plan Recommendations—County Sectors...... 47 North County Sector...... 50 Northeast County Sector...... 52 VIII. Implementation Strategies...... 63 Northwest County Sector...... 55 South County Sector...... 59 Appendix A: Summary of Public Participation...... 67 Southwest County Sector...... 61 Appendix B: Urban Growth Boundary Map...... 73 Appendix C: Park Land Acquisition Recommendations for the Tables Next 15 Years...... 75 Sample Inventory Evaluation for Victor Ashe Park...... 15 Appendix D: An Overview of the Plan Map Preparation Process...... 77 Park and Natural Area Acreage by Sector...... 16 Appendix E: Greenway Priorities...... 79 Types of Parks by Sector...... 17 Appendix F: Short-term Improvement Program for Existing Parks...... 83 Statistics by Sector...... 28 Acknowledgements...... 85 Figures Knox County Population Projections, 2005-2030...... 7 Prototypical Neighborhood Park Diagram...... 11 Prototypical Community Park Diagram...... 12 Prototypical Sports Complex Diagram...... 12 Prototypical District Park Diagram...... 13 MPC Planning Sectors...... 14
Mission Statements
The mission of theKnoxville Parks and Recreation Department is to provide a safe and fun environment for all citizens to recreate and enjoy their leisure time. We strive to promote healthy lifestyles and character building activities for people of all ages by making available adult and youth organized athletics, passive parks, greenway trails, special events, and recreational facilities with a variety of programs.
The mission of theKnox County Park and Recreation Depatment is to provide and preserve quality parks with recreation opportunities for all.
The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009 I. Introduction
Purpose cohesive system of parks and recreation facilities has a separate governmental structure (Mayor and This document marks the first time that the city throughout the city and the county. Many of the Aldermen), including its own parks and recreation of Knoxville and Knox County have created a issues noted in the previous plans are still germane, department. For the purpose of this plan the comprehensive plan for parks, recreation and including: the provision of recreational facilities existing parks, recreation and greenway facilities greenway trails. The purpose of this long range master for seniors as the baby boomer generation reaches in Farragut have been included as resources for the plan is to meet the park and recreation facility needs retirement age; diminishing land resources for public but recommendations for future facilities of the Knoxville and Knox County population that is parks due to rapid growth; and the public desire to are limited to resources that Knox County would projected reach 525,940 by 2030. Additionally, it is protect open spaces, ridges, stream corridors and provide. a priority of this plan to conserve open spaces within valleys. Knox County including critical natural features such The existing conditions of these facilities were as streams, rivers and forested areas. Scope and Contents inventoried by staff of the Metropolitan Planning The park and recreation system in Knoxville and Commission (MPC), Knoxville Parks and This plan is a component of the Knoxville-Knox Knox County has about 6,000 acres of usable park Recreation and Knox County Parks and Recreation County General Plan with its accompanying land (this does not include acreage that is currently over a twelve month period in order to assess the sector plans and is also an update of the following under water along lakes and streams; it also type and condition of each facility in the system1. documents: Knoxville Parks, Greenways, & Open reduces school sites to land dedicated to recreation Additionally, citizen and user needs were evaluated Space Resource Inventory, 1999; The Knoxville purposes). It is important to note that there are two through a variety of surveys and multiple public Greenways & Community Trails Commission Report, incorporated areas within Knox County, the city meetings. 1992; Knox County Park and Recreation Facility of Knoxville and the town of Farragut. The town Plan, 1998; and the Knox County Greenways Plan, of Farragut is in the southwest portion of Knox Park System History and Growth 1994. The intent is to provide a connected and County, encompassing about 16 square miles and The city of Knoxville was incorporated in 1815; some 24 years after James White signed the Treaty of the Holston that opened Knox County to settlers from the original states. It was not until 1872 that Knox County Population Projections, 2005-2030 the first park, Circle Park, was donated to the city Based on moderate growth scenario by John K. Payne starting the public park system. Circle Park has since been assimilated into the
1The background material for this plan includes a survey of all the existing parks, recreation centers, and greenways and is available at the MPC Library.
7 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
University of Tennessee’s campus and is currently boating, canoeing, fishing and swimming. TVA also In addition to public funding of parks, many a planted open space. In 1929 when the city hired established demonstration parks next to their water community associations provide park space and Harland Bartholomew and Associates to do a resources and in 1941 Sequoyah Park was created recreation services. Thorngrove Community Park comprehensive plan for the entire city, there were after the Fort Loudoun Dam was established. This was one of the first parks created by a community 92 acres of park land in the system. park is still in existence today and is one of Knoxville group. That community spirit increased dramatically and Knox County’s gems along the Tennessee River. in the 1960s when Halls Community Park, While the 1929 plan calls for the increase of park Additionally, TVA has been instrumental in setting Kimberlin Heights Park, Karns Community Park, land and the creation of pleasure drives linking aside areas which have protected forests, lake shores Ball Camp Community Park and Gibbs Ruritan these spaces together the city had little time to and bluffs near the lakes. Examples include the park Park were established. Communities continue to implement this plan before the Great Depression. land on Keller Bend, Badgett Road, Rogers Island help to maintain extensive recreation programs As part of the Federal Government’s response to the Road and Wrights Ferry Road. especially in suburban and rural communities. Great Depression, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) was created in 1933: “a corporation clothed After World War II and the creation of the Another element of recreation is supplied by the with the power of government but possessed of the interstate system, many cities suffered from town of Farragut. The development of parks, green flexibility and initiative of a private enterprise.”2 dwindling populations because of the allure of space, pedestrian links and leisure opportunities TVA was charged with power production, enabling suburban homes. Knoxville was no exception. These are essential to the town’s mission. Since its navigation, flood control, malaria prevention, larger lots away from the hustle and bustle of the incorporation in 1980, the town has created and reforestation, and erosion control. Additionally, city provided opportunities for children to play in maintained Anchor Park, Mayor Bob Leonard TVA’s land acquisition and creation of dam’s for their own backyards. These trends led to a decreased Park and Campbell Station Park. Furthermore, hydroelectric power created water resources for demand for parks in the central city neighborhoods the town has implemented requirements for the and increased demand for community and regional development of greenway trails with the creation of parks. By the 1960s, recognizing the decline new subdivisions. of cities, the Federal Government began urban renewal projects to revitalize the heart of cities providing funding for a variety of projects including neighborhood recreation centers and parks. Morningside Park, just east of downtown Knoxville, is one example. Federal matching grants were also used in the 1970s to acquire land for park purposes including: Powell Levi Park, New Carter Park and Nicholas Ball Park. During the 1980s these federal The development of Talahi, with its fountain, set the tone for the funds dwindled and with the increasing cost of creation of Sequoyah Park. land, especially in the city, park land acquisition was limited. 2http://www.tva.gov/abouttva/history.htm Morningside Park
8 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
In 1985, the Department of Recreation for Knox Approximately three thousand acres have been the city and county parks departments have County officially became the Knox County Parks acquired or identified for protection as parks and developed separate plans. However, recognizing and Recreation Department recognizing the need conservation areas. That success story includes: that the citizens of both the city and the county are for both recreation programs and a comprehensive • Beverly Park using city, county and other facilities, it made sense park system. The 1990s saw the development of • Clayton Park to coordinate the creation of this plan. Through Knoxville’s and Knox County’s greenway system, • Danny Mayfield Park this effort, it is obvious that the city and county are both governments put together plans and strategies • French Memorial Park committed to working together and with citizens for the development of greenways throughout the • Forks of the River Park to provide quality parks and recreation spaces for county. Another element of the 1994 Knox County • Forts Higley and Stanley all. Two groups have specifically been created to Greenways Plan was the creation of the Parks and • Harvest Park advocate for parks and recreation, including: Recreation Advisory Board which was created to • Holston River Park oversee the development of the park system. • Meade Quarry addition at Ijams Nature Center Knox County Parks Advisory Board—serves as an • Northwest Sports Park advisory group to the county government regarding In preparing the Knoxville Knox County General • Plumb Creek Park parks, recreation, greenways and open space. The Plan in 1990, it was found that the City and • Powell Station Park Board has advocated for the creation of such trails County were deficient in park space, in terms • Three Ridges olfG Course as Sterchi Greenway, Spring Place Park, Ten Mile of recognized standards and in relation to peer • Tommy Schumpert Park metropolitan areas. Goals were established to shore • Seven Islands Wildlife Refuge up the deficiencies in parks and protect natural • Victor Ashe Park areas. The results, which are the result of public • Walker Springs Park and private contributions, have been remarkable. • William Hastie Park
Greenway implementation has been notable. The Bearden, First Creek, Neyland, Pellissippi, Powell, Sequoyah, Sterchi, Ten Mile, Third Creek, and Will Skelton Greenways are among the most prominent in connecting the system.
Additionally, the city and county have been collaborating on the Knox Blount Greenway that involves several local municipalities and the state. With the success of these previous planning efforts, the city and the county recognized that it was time The addition of a skate park provides a public space for users to to update the plans from the 1990s. Historically, practice this growing sport. Will Skelton Greenway Extension
9 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Creek Greenway, Knox Blount Greenway, Powell space system as a way to deal with protecting open Knox Greenway Coalition—is a local citizens- Greenway, Halls Greenway and many others. space in Knox County. A year later, Mayor Victor based organization that supports the management Ashe appointed the Knoxville Greenways and and growth of the city’s and county’s greenways. Legacy Parks Foundation—is a non-profit Community Trails Commission to create a concept The Coalition promotes creation of new greenways organization which works to assure that the plan for greenways and make recommendations on as a way to link neighborhoods, provide recreation community enjoys exceptional recreational what steps should be taken to initially create the opportunities and better quality of life opportunities. opportunities, natural beauty and open spaces, and foundation of a greenway system. The Commission that those assets exist for generations to come. The report was presented to the Mayor in 1992. The city The combined efforts of these governments and Foundation’s mission is to bridge the gap between of Knoxville then collaborated with Knox County organizations over the last 16 years have provided the services and amenities afforded by government and a comprehensive countywide greenway master Knoxville and Knox County (including the town of funding and those that allow the Foundation to take plan was composed in 1994. The intent of this plan Farragut) residents with over 50 miles of greenway full advantage of the incredible natural resources of was to “supply public park facilities while providing trails. The effective partnership of the city, county, our region. Established in 2005, the Foundation for the preservation of some of Knox County’s most state and federal governments along with concerned works in collaboration with the city of Knoxville important natural resources”. In order to implement citizens and private interests has caused the popularity and Knox County Parks & Recreation Departments this plan, the city of Knoxville, Knox County and use of the greenway system to grow each year. and other like-minded organizations to: and the town of Farragut have hired greenway • Secure funding for land acquisition, park coordinators and the following groups have been Citizen interest in the creation and maintenance improvements and recreation programs instrumental: of greenways continues to be significant. The • Accept gifts of land number one request from public input was for • Provide for and maintain greenway and The Knoxville Greenways Commission—as “comprehensively connected greenways across the conservation easements mentioned above was created to study the needs county and to develop new greenways and sidewalks.” • Advocate for parks and outdoor recreation. and desires of city residents and to promote This input indicates that greenway users desire to use the development of new greenways and the greenways to get from one place to another both for Greenway System History and maintenance of existing ones. Another function is recreation and transportation purposes. Growth to investigate and recommend sources of funding The city of Knoxville began its greenway system and the donation of land. This group is still meeting in the early 1970s with the construction of the on a quarterly basis, acting as a forum for discussion Third Creek Trail. This trail linked the University and providing recommendations to city staff and of Tennessee Married Students Apartments to Knoxville City Council regarding greenways. Cumberland Avenue creating a connection to the The Commission has advocated for the creation the University’s campus. This was the start of what of greenways including, Victor Ashe Greenway, would become a county wide system. In 1990, Bearden Village Greenway, Lower Second Creek the General Plan 2005 recommended the goal Greenway, Knox Blount Greenway, Papermill Bluff of a comprehensive public greenway and open Greenway and many others. Knoxville and Knox County now have more than 50 miles of greenway trails.
10 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009 II. Park Types, Inventory and Assessment of Parks and Recreation Facilities
Three significant considerations were outdoors. Parks should be tailored to the needs of market). They are generally provided in more urban instrumental in developing this plan: the surrounding neighborhoods. These parks should settings. A square is usually surrounded by grid streets 1. Nationally and locally recognized park be within a quarter to a half mile from most homes, and buildings. Its landscape should consist of paths, standards, including the types of parks and their size is typically between 5-20 acres. lawns and formally planted trees. Their size is variable, that traditionally form a park system; with a city block being typical. Plazas are generally 2. Assessments of existing conditions; and Pocket Parks are usually smaller than an acre hard surfaced spaces that are framed by buildings. 3. Public participation, including the views and provide limited facilities that serve a small and suggestions of hundreds of citizens population, such as a portion of a neighborhood Greens and Commons are open spaces available and a wide range of recreation interests. or housing complex. “Tot-lots” are a type of for active and passive recreation. A green may pocket park, provided in residential settings where be spatially defined by landscaping rather than Park Types and Standards backyard space is limited and geared toward building frontages. Its landscape should consist Within a park and recreation system there are younger children. of lawn and trees placed in a natural distribution. a variety of facilities created to serve different The minimum size should be 2 acres and the users and various functions. The following Squares and Plazas are open spaces available for maximum should be 15 acres. Smaller greens can be types of parks have been defined for two passive recreation (like resting on a bench) and civic neighborhood-serving and larger greens, sometimes purposes: 1) to categorize the existing parks purposes (like commemorating a historical figure called commons, can be community serving when and recreation facilities, and 2) to define the or for public commercial purposes, like a farmer’s located in a central location. types of parks that are needed to fill in gaps of service so that there is equitable access to recreation for all residents.
Close-to-Home Parks Neighborhood and community recreation needs are met through close-to-home parks, that is, parks that are within an easy walking or driving distance to most residents. Such parks can be further described as follows.
Neighborhood Parks should include spaces for active recreation activities such as ball Squares are appropriate to residential and commercial areas. practice and include passive recreation areas for strolling, picnicking, and enjoying the
11 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
School Parks are recreation facilities at local are devoted to sports field development, and are District and Regional Parks typically exceed 100 schools, which may include playgrounds, ball commonly 10 to 100 acres in size. In rural areas of acres and provide a significant amount of natural, fields, courts, tracks and other open spaces. For the Knox County, community parks are often smaller open space and other areas for active recreation. purpose of the inventory, the grounds of elementary than 10 acres but still serve a broad function, like District parks should be within a 15 to 30 minute schools were classified as neighborhood-serving places for baseball and softball games. drive for a majority of residents. These parks can spaces, while middle and high school playfields often include such uses as a golf course, a picnic were classified as community-serving spaces. It Other Types of Parks and Facilities area, trails, nature center, boating and swimming is recognized that middle and high schools are Sports Complexes include a variety of athletic areas, day camps and sports fields. Regional parks are typically limited in providing recreation to the fields, courts, and associated facilities such as larger and contain more substantial natural areas. general public because many fields, such as football restrooms and concession areas. These facilities are fields, are limited just to school use. commonly used for practice and games, and are Golf Courses are provided by both public and typically designed to serve substantial segments of private interests. Country clubs, which are not Community Parks are typically larger in size, the population. Sport complexes are generally large, opened to the general public, were not considered serving a broader purpose and population than requiring a minimum of 40 acres with 80-100 acres in creating this plan. In metropolitan areas, a public a neighborhood park. Developed for both active being optimal. They should be located along major or quasi-public (daily fee) course should be located and passive recreation, community parks offer roadways and have buffers next to residential uses. within a 20-minute drive of most residents. “Par- recreational opportunities not feasible or desirable In the inventory, sports complexes were generally 3” or “Wee Courses” are smaller scaled layouts, in neighborhood parks. Many community parks considered as another component in meeting generally serving adolescents, and those who wish to community park needs. practice or do not have time for a full round of golf.
Community parks should be designed for multiple uses, like Holston River Park.
12 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Recreation Centers limited space. Most users are able to walk to resources; lands that are unsuitable for development These are generally buildings that provide a variety these locations. but offer natural resource potential; and protected of recreation spaces, including a gymnasium, weight lands, such as wetlands, and wildlife refuges. room, performance stage, pool, library, and rooms Community and District Recreation for aerobics, dance, crafts, classes and community Centers are intended to serve a diverse and Nature Centers are preserves that protect the meetings. Sometimes the term, “recreation center,” large segment of the population, including natural environment. Additionally, nature centers is used to include ball fields and other outdoor citizens of all ages and recreational needs. often have the responsibility for environmental facilities (for example, the quasi-public Fountain They are generally designed to serve 20,000 education, particularly about the plants and City Recreation Center). There are several types of to 50, 000 people. These facilities should animals that make their home in the community. recreation centers discussed in this plan, including: be located on major arterial streets to Generally, the center has a building for interpretive accommodate the most number of users. and instructional purposes. Neighborhood Recreation Centers are typically They can be developed, in conjunction with located in the City of Knoxville to serve dense communities, in district or regional parks. Arboretums are forested sites open to the public. urban neighborhoods and many of these buildings This plan proposes the creation of several Management practices must be in place to protect are several decades old. They generally serve smaller new district recreation centers, distributed trees. Plant establishment should exemplify modern populations (less than 10,000) and often have throughout Knox County. planting and protection methods. In Tennessee, at least 30 species of trees must be labeled with both Senior Recreation Centers are another type common and botanical names to be recognized of recreation center, created for a range of under the state’s arboretum program. activities geared towards older, often retired, residents. These activities often include computer training, quilting and craft classes, aerobics, board or card games and social events. In Knox County these centers are not operated by the Park and Recreation Department but are occasionally located within a park.
Natural Areas Natural Resource Areas/Preserves are lands set aside for preservation of significant natural resources, remnant landscapes, open space and visual aesthetics or buffering. These lands Natural area conservation can be as simple as dedicating a wooded can include individual sites exhibiting natural stream corridor for park use.
13 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Blueways include rivers and the TVA lakes that categorically rated: poor, fair, good or excellent. This standard for close-to-home parks which includes can be used for canoeing, kayaking and rowing. information was used in creating the improvement neighborhood, community and school- parks (that Protection of the shoreline and access points are recommendations of this plan (see Appendix C). is, school playfields and playgrounds) is a range important considerations in establishing a blueway. Additionally, the accessibility of park amenities was of 6.25-10.5 acres of parks for every thousand assessed, and photos were taken and catalogued in residents. The standard of 6.25 acres per thousand a database for parks department use. An example residents is what both the city and county parks of the evaluation form is included on page 15. The departments have used as a baseline standard for inventory can be obtained through the MPC library the last several years. The following tables look at or the parks and recreation departments. the total park acreage per sector for the city and the county and compare the total acreage to the number Inventory Results of acres of close-to-home parks per 1,000 residents. The inventory was also used to examine the level of service in providing park and recreation facilities The table for the City Park and Natural Area throughout Knox County. MPC’s planning sectors Acreage on page 16 shows an average of 4.98 were used as a basis in the analysis. acres per thousand citizens throughout the six city More access points are needed along the French Broad and sectors. The North City Sector has the least close- Holston Blueways. The National Park and Recreation Association to-home park acreage per resident at 3.49 acres per Assessment of Park Conditions and (NRPA) recommends guidelines for park services thousand. In comparison, the East City Sector has Inventory of Facilities based on acreage per 1,000 citizens. The NRPA the most with 6.35 acres per thousand. In February 2006, staff and interns of the The table for County Park and Natural Area Acreage Metropolitan Planning Commission and both Parks MPC Planning Sectors on page 16 shows an average of 3.29 acres per and Recreation Departments started inventorying thousand citizens throughout the six county sectors. all of the parks, recreation centers and greenways Looking at the individual sectors the East County in the city and county. The inventory process was Sector has the most close-to-home parks at 8.2 per conducted by an on-site visit to each facility in thousand versus the North County Sector which has which the inspector assessed and catalogued the the least at 1.45 acres per thousand citizens. This number, type and condition of equipment and information is very important in assessing future facilities (for example, slides and picnic tables). needs, especially considering the rapid population A total of 288 parks were inventoried including growth and increasing development in some sectors. properties owned by Knoxville, Knox County (both the park and school grounds) and Farragut. The table on types of city parks on page 17 shows Leased and privately owned properties were also that the most close-to-home parks, including the surveyed. In completing the inventory, the courts, County sectors are identified in all capital letters. various types of neighborhood and community goals, fields, picnic facilities and other facilities were City sectors are in capital and lower case letters.
14 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Sample Inventory Evaluation for Victor Ashe Park
CITY OF KNOXVILLE PARKS
Park Name: Victor Ashe Park Utilities: yes Address: 4901 Bradshaw Road Electrical: yes Established Date: 2004 Water: yes Sector: Northwest City Sewer: yes Ownership: City of Knoxville Park Summary: This park provides a wide range of recreational opportunities. It is a Maintenance: City of Knoxville community park that is used as a regional host for cross country races. Nearest School: Northwest Middle School The dog park is small but popular. The park pavilion provides covered Adjacent Greenways: Victor Ashe, Northwest Greenways space for community activities as well as family gatherings. The disc Accessible by trail: yes golf course meets the national standards and is used for league play. The Accessible by sidewalk: yes ponds within the park are stocked annually for family friendly fishing Landscaping: Some areas need to be reseeded in the soccer fields. There are many days. The soccer fields have concrete bleachers for spectators with the mature trees within the park that provides shade. The tree line around playground nearby. The layout of the park works well for families with the perimeter of the park gives a sense of enclosure and a place for multiple children of different ages. children to explore the woods. Park Inspector: Chris Dent Community or Inspection Date: 3-12-06 Historical Significance: This park links Northwest Middle School and Badgett Fields with the surrounding neighborhoods. It is named after a three termed mayor of Knoxville. It was formally known as Northwest Park.
PARK COMPONENTS Quantity Condition Lighted Accessible Miscellaneous Comments Basketball Courts 0 Soccer Fields 4 3 N Y Baseball Fields 0 Park is adjacent to Badgett Fields which has baseball fields Volleyball Courts 0 Tennis Courts 0 Exercise Station 0 Parking 330 3 N Y Parking needs exceed 330 with regional cross country races Concessions Yes 3 Y Y Restrooms Yes 3 Y Y Rental Pavilion 1 3 Y Y Walking Trail 1 3 N Y Other: Disc Golf 1 3 N N Playground Equipment 1 3 N N Picnic Unit 11 3 Y Y Benches 30 3 N Y Drinking Fountains 2 3 N Y Trash Receptacles Yes 3 Signage Yes 3 Other: Dog Park 1 2 N Y Fenced in area is good for small dogs
15 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Park and Natural Area Acreage by Sector parks, are within the Central City Sector. The sector also has the greatest population of the city CITY OF KNOXVILLE sectors. The North and Northwest City Sectors have Park Class Central East North Northwest South West Total Neighborhood 126.90 26.11 12.94 10.58 57.22 34.17 267.91 relative few neighborhood parks, largely because Community 125.80 149.40 126.04 129.00 42.60 80.27 653.11 these areas developed in the post-World War II era District/Regional 68.58 0.00 107.26 110.92 0.00 69.18 355.94 where people drove everywhere and a park within Open Space/Natural Area 115.11 0.00 0.00 0.00 557.44 12.44 684.99 walking distance was not much of a consideration. Private/Quasi-Public 0.36 46.95 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 47.31 (TOTAL) 436.75 222.46 246.24 250.50 657.26 196.05 2009.26 While the West City Sector does not have as many
individual parks, it has an abundance of large parks, Population (2006 Estimate) 51,283 27,645 27,434 30,077 19,873 21,970 178,282 Acres/1,000 population 8.52 8.05 8.98 8.33 33.07 8.92 11.27 such as Sequoyah and Lakeshore Parks that are Acres of Close-to-Home Parks/1,000 population 4.93 6.35 5.07 4.64 5.02 5.21 5.17 cherished by area residents.
Publicly-owned Golf Courses 180.23 The table on types of county parks shows the county KNOX COUNTY sectors are lacking neighborhood parks. The suburban Park Class East North Northeast Northwest Southwest South Total areas were created in the automobile age, when park Neighborhood 0.50 18.40 4.50 20.23 29.08 2.50 75.21 Community 117.91 55.26 74.44 287.26 111.07 71.51 717.46 dedication and acquisition did not keep pace with District/Regional 0.00 177.93 0.00 261.35 606.06 154.45 1199.79 growth. The foundations of the county’s system are Open Space/Natural Area 389.52 30.80 500.05 121.76 263.66 704.45 2010.26 the community parks, which were often created by Private/Quasi-Public 101.67 0.98 0.00 135.31 0.98 0.00 238.94 civic organizations, not county government. The (TOTAL) 609.60 283.37 578.99 825.92 1010.85 932.91 4241.65 greatest number of parks is in the Northwest County Population (2006 Estimate) 14,446 46,009 23,594 67,691 61,071 20,873 233,684 Sector and the Southwest County Sector, which is Acres/1,000 population 42.20 6.16 24.54 12.20 16.55 44.69 18.15 Acres of Close-to-Home Parks/1,000 population 8.20 1.60 3.35 4.54 2.29 3.55 3.39 appropriate considering these two sectors have the largest populations. Additionally, the Southwest Publicly-owned Golf Courses 245.14 147.79 County Sector has the most acreage of any sector at just over a thousand acres, much of this land having been provided by TVA following the creation of Fort Notes Loudoun Lake. The South County Sector and the 1. The acreage that comprises these city and county sector tables represents city and county resources, public school playgrounds and playfields, other public and quasi-public resources. Sector boundaries are based on census tracts not corporate limits; therefore, the sector acreage will not match what might be Northeast County Sector have the least number of thought of as the county-owned or city-owned park totals (see below). parks. The Northeast Sector, however, has one of the 2. The total acreage of the city-owned parks is 1437.20. When land under water is excluded, the total is 1433.55 acres. 3. The total acreage of the county-owned parks is 3391.89. When land under water is excluded, the total is 3168.36 acres. most significant resources, House Mountain Natural 4. Public golf course acreage (Three Ridges, Knoxville Municipal, the Wee Course and Whittle Springs), which have their own parcels, are also depicted. Area. The North County Sector with approximately 5. Neighborhood parks include squares, pocket parks and elementary school playgrounds. 6. Community parks include community-based sports complexes and middle and high school playfields. 270 acres of park land and few neighborhood parks 7. Acreage is not calculated for recreation centers or greenways. is a particular concern because of rapid population 8. Acres of close-to-home parks includes neighborhood and community parks. growth.
16 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Public Participation Types of Parks by Sector A variety of means were used in obtaining citizen CITY OF KNOXVILLE input in developing this plan. A series of nine public Typology Central East North Northwest South West Total meetings were held to allow residents to voice their Squares, greens and pocket parks 19 5 0 0 4 4 32 Traditional Neighborhood Park 9 3 1 0 4 0 17 likes, dislikes and vision for the future. Over 150 Elementary School 7 3 4 6 3 3 26 citizens participated in the public meetings and Traditional Community Park 4 1 3 1 2 1 12 provided helpful input. Furthermore, since the city Middle/High School 2 2 2 1 1 2 10 and county have established Recreation Associations Traditional District/Regional 0 0 1 1 0 1 3 Sports Complex 2 3 1 2 2 1 11 and a Parks Advisory Board, a meeting was held to Open Space/Natural Area 1 0 0 0 5 1 7 tap their knowledge and obtain input for this park Special Use Park 5 2 1 0 2 0 10 plan with over 60 people participating. Recreation Centers 9 6 1 4 3 2 25
KNOX COUNTY The Metropolitan Planning Commission also Typology East North Northeast Northwest South Southwest Total conducted a web-based survey to determine Squares, greens and pocket parks 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 community satisfaction with parks and recreation Traditional Neighborhood Park 0 3 0 1 0 2 6 programs and to assess the community preferences. Elementary School 1 5 4 4 4 3 21 Traditional Community Park 5 1 4 7 3 3 23 Additionally, because school aged children are not Middle/High School 2 3 2 5 1 2 15 typically reached through public surveys, the staff of Traditional District/Regional 0 1 0 1 0 3 5 MPC worked with Knox County Schools to survey Sports Complex 0 1 1 7 2 1 12 over 280 sophomore students through their required Open Space/Natural Area 2 2 1 3 3 12 23 Special Use Park 0 0 0 1 1 0 2 tenth grade wellness class. These two survey efforts Recreation Centers 0 0 1 1 0 0 2 produced over 900 responses. A summary of these surveys is included in Appendix A.
Notes: In 2008 the draft plan was presented to Knoxville 1. Open Space/ Natural Area includes ‘Nature Centers’ and ‘Preserve/Reserves’ and Knox County citizens at the Expo Center and 2. Recreation Centers include Senior Centers, Community Recreation Centers and Neighborhood Recreation Centers and excludes Boys/Girls Clubs and YMCA/YWCA through MPC’s website. This document represents 3. Greenways are not included in the table the suggestions, concerns and vision of the majority 4. Private/Quasi-Public park facilities are included of citizens who participated in the process and the city and county boards and staff who also reviewed the plan.
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The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009 III. Guiding Principles and Policies
Create a park system that is accessible to state and federal agencies to ensure that natural Promote sustainability and a system of and meets needs of all citizens areas are protected and to explore broader use of green infrastructure in park design • In urban areas a park or greenway should be facilities. • Energy saving and water conserving technologies within a ¼ walk of residents; in lower density • The park departments should continue to should be used in designing parks and recreation suburban areas the walking distance should be explore use of corporate and non-profit facilities. one-half mile. organization sports fields, trails and facilities; • Open space systems, including water-oriented • Parks and trails should, where practical, be naming rights should be used as a means to set greenways, forest preserves and natural areas, constructed to meet the needs of people of aside dedicated, public park spaces. should be priorities in creating the park system. various physical abilities. • Sports fields should be designed for multi- • In designing parks and constructing park Enhance economic vitality purpose use; creation of rectangular fields for a improvements, develop the improvement • Parks, greenways and natural areas should be set wider variety of pastimes should be the norm in program with neighborhood and community aside as a means to stimulate community and facility development. interests. economic investments and to maintain natural • As model agencies in developing and retrofitting beauty and property values. public spaces, the park departments should Connect a system of greenways • Park investments should be made to revitalize plant shade trees in parking lots and use natural • Multi-purpose trails should be the backbones neighborhoods and to redevelop special districts, drainage systems, like bio-swales and pervious of a greenway recreation and transportation including such places as the South Waterfront, paving, to reduce storm water impacts. network. the “Heart of Knoxville” and rural centers where • Community, district and regional park sites • The greenway system should be established as growth is anticipated. should be selected to protect water, wetland links between parks, schools, neighborhoods and places of employment. • The open space system should be created as a place of stewardship of the natural environment for today’s and tomorrow’s generations.
Collaborate, bringing the public and private sectors together, to develop the park system • The Legacy Parks Foundation is recognized as a significant partner in fostering the creation of park and natural areas. • The city and county should engage non-profit organizations, faith-based organizations, and A greenway along First Creek reusing the rail line would benefit revitalization in the area.
19 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
and hillside areas as well as providing active The Framework for the Plan have a park or greenway within a quarter-mile of recreation space. In following this plan’s policies, the park system can every resident. • Stream valleys and forested ridges should be be expanded to meet the future needs of a population part of the open space that shape growth and that is expected to reach 600,000 by 2030. The Suburban growth areas: New neighborhood and maintain community identity. concept plan on the opposite page, based on the community parks, located within a one-half mile central portion of the county, depicts the proposed distance of residents, should be foundations in Use public school locations to maximize green infrastructure formed by greenways and natural future neighborhood development. Provisions for use of playground, playfield and related areas that can, when realized, conserve water and greenways and greenway connectors should be made facilities. forest resources, define communities and provide with new development and subdivisions (see maps • Neighborhood and community parks should recreation opportunities for future generations. Chapters VI and VII). be established next to or as part of school site acquisitions or expansions, enabling shared use Greenways and natural areas: Conserve open Rural area: In one sense, this area (which was of parking and recreation facilities. spaces for recreation and environmental protection, established in Knoxville’s Knox County Growth • Knox County, its school board and the park particularly along stream, ridge and river corridors. Policy Plan, see Appendix B), is the county’s largest departments should examine community-serving Use a combination of public and private programs greenbelt, a place of agricultural, forest and very recreation needs before a decision is made to to protect this green infrastructure, avoid sprawl and low density residential uses. In the Rural Area, the surplus or sell schools and school grounds. foster environmental benefits. park system should be created: (1) to protect natural • County schools should be consistently spaces, including forest conservation and wildlife considered in meeting recreation needs, Heart of Knoxville: Our oldest neighborhoods also management areas; and (2) provide community including use of gymnasiums and fields for city contain the highest population densities and should parks for youth sports and adult recreation. and county recreation leagues and as sites for cooperative maintenance and programming (for example, soccer and tennis court facilities).
Develop the park and open space system as a foundation in community development • Acquire parks and greenways as a prelude to development, setting aside open spaces in a timely manner before opportunities are lost. • Provide a park acquisition element as part of Above: The urban wilderness and river greenways will be legacies. annexation analyses and delivery of services documentation. Right, top: Multiuse parks should be a focus within the Heart of Knoxville and suburban growth areas.
Right, bottom: The Rural Area has its own green infrastructure composed of farms and natural areas. Still, community parks are needed to meet local recreation needs.
20 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
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21 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Countywide Existing and Proposed Greenways
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0 1 2 3 4 / Mile 22 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009 IV. Plan Proposals: Greenways and Natural Areas
Greenways and Greenway Connectors similar destinations to assist student travel and downtown; develop bike facilities and sidewalks.” to reduce automobile dependency. That goal is embedded in this plan. Greenways • Equity and Neighborhood Conservation: Greenways are usually created along corridors Create greenways that provide low- and There are two basic types of trails that are possible such as rivers, streams and abandoned rail lines. moderate-income neighborhoods with in creating the greenway system: Generally, a trail is developed within a greenway. amenities and establish buffers to incompatible Primary objectives in setting aside the Knoxville- land uses. Multi-use paved trails: the prototype is the Knox County greenway system include: • Economic Development: Establish greenways to traditional asphalt trail that characterizes much of • Natural Resource Protection: Protect and help attract new corporations, and to enhance the Knoxville-Knox County system. enhance natural resources including water, property values and tourism, and to revitalize forest, wildlife and scenic resources. Use areas like the South Waterfront. Natural surface trails: hiking, mountain biking greenways in restoring streams and reclaiming • Heritage and Cultural Education: Link trails and horseback riding trails are prototypes. These “brownfields.” to historic assets, offering interpretation of our trails are best suited to hilly, natural areas, rural • Park Access and Recreation Opportunities: history. areas and rail-to-trail projects, such as the reuse of Increase public access to parks through the the Smoky Mountain Railroad. creation of a trail system, including creek-side In public meetings and surveys, citizens said that and riverside routes. Multiple uses of trails greenway connections were the greatest need in Decisions on the type of trail should be made when (biking, running, walking) are encouraged. building the park system. A typical statement completing routing studies. The surface should be • Access to Educational and Employment heard in the public process was: “Comprehensively chosen in relation to environmental limitations, Centers: Focus on schools, office parks and connect greenways across the county, especially to projected use and cost.
Greenways provide a great opportunity for the number one wellness activity: walking. Mountain biking is appropriate on some natural surface trails. Sequoyah Hills Greenway is a popular place for jogging.
23 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Greenway Connectors best for urban and suburban settings; packed should be interpreted to suggest that roads and Critical roadway connections have been identified gravel could fare well in rural settings streets designated as greenway connectors are the to provide additional bicycle and pedestrian • Bicycle Lanes: These lanes are designated for only routes where these connections are needed. connections. These connections should be use by bicyclists by striping and pavement Both Transportation Planning Organization and programmed as street and highway projects are markings. Shoulders may also be appropriate in Tennessee Department of Transportation policies funded or, where critically needed, as separate rual areas. require that all transportation projects using state or projects. The types of connectors include: • Wide Outside Lanes: Bicycles and motor vehicles federal transportation funding must accommodate • Sidewalks: Concrete will generally be chosen as can share a wide (14') outside travel lane on low bicyclists and pedestrians. the surface. Preference surveys show that people and moderate volume and speed streets. feel more comfortable in using sidewalks when Recommended greenways and greenway they are separated from travel lanes by grass Fitting the proper solution with the connectors: the framework for the Greenway or other landscaping. This type of design is circumstance: The design of the connector will Plan is presented on page 22. The more detailed recommended in creating greenway connectors. depend on several factors: right-of-way width, greenway and greenway connector information is • Side paths: These paths provide both pedestrian intersection and driveway frequency, traffic outlined in Chapters VII and VIII, which show and bicycle access along roads. Pedestrians and volumes, adjoining land use and the number and proposed greenways in relation to the overall park bicyclists are separated from cars by a swath ages of the people that will be served. The selection system for each sector. A recommended 5 and 15 of open space and share the same path. The of the type and design of the connector should be Year Greenway Improvement Program is contained minimum width should be 10 feet. Asphalt is made in the design phase. Nothing in this plan in Appendix E.
A sidepath Finely chipped gravel trails can offer a less expensive solution where An example of a dedicated bike lane there are not steep slopes.
24 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Natural Areas French Broad Blueway: Utilize these resources as Ridge Conservation Corridors catalysts for creating an open space and wildlife Knoxville and Knox County have been blessed protection system along the river. Conserve Knox County communities enjoy a naturally with several large reserves of natural and wildlife farmland as a supplement to this system. Create beautiful landscape, framed by forested ridges. management areas. These include Concord Park, greenway connections and blueway access points Ridges define the edges of communities like Powell Forks of the River Wildlife Management Area, between Ijams Nature Center and the refuge. and Halls and are treasured by many residents. Ridge House Mountain State Natural Area, Ijams Nature • Ijams Nature Center-Hastie Park corridor: conservation corridors could be used to conserve Center, William Hastie Natural Area, Melton Acquire space for a trail and open space system natural settings for recreation including wildlife Hill Park and Seven Islands Wildlife Refuge. linking all the public spaces along this South observation and walking trails. In one sense, these Additionally, several tracts were set aside for habitat Knoxville Ridge. corridors could be like a smaller Appalachian trail and passive recreation along Fort Loudoun Lake. • Copper Ridge Park and Natural Area: Acquire system and could be extended on a regional basis. ridge and flood plain space for hiking, wildlife These conservation corridors can be a combination While these areas form the framework of a natural protection and active recreation purposes. of public and privately-owned land and should be area system, they can be expanded and new • House Mountain Natural Area and Park: Add a established through the following programs: areas should be established. The following are community park near the base of the mountain • Hillside conservation and development recommended: to serve a broader range of recreation purposes. standards: Very low density residential • The Urban Wilderness and Historic Corridor: • I. C. King Park expansion: Acquire additional development is already designated in most Set aside the ridges and Civil War forts of South land, particularly to the south and provide an of the identified corridors and should be Knoxville and extend this system to Ijams Nature access point at Maryville Pike. continued as one means to protect ridges (for Center and westward along Chapman Ridge. example, one unit per two acres). Another • Seven Islands Wildlife Refuge Expansion and the option could be an incentive program that encourages developers to cluster housing units at the toe of a slope or on more level terrain within a site (such increases in housing density could be made in exchange for a conservation easement). • Ridge Corridors and Trail Easement Acquisition: the work of the Legacy Parks Foundation is the model for this approach. Both private donations and public purchases should be considered. Tax advantages are available for donations and non- profit groups such as the Foundation can assist in this option to create protected natural areas and walking trails. House Mountain Natural Area and McAnnally Ridge, a potential ridge conservation corridor.
25
The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009 V: Recreation Facilities
This section of the plan focuses on each sport or specific season. For example, the great field at Victor Softball is both a youth and adult, male and female type of recreation facility. The needs for facility Ashe Park was designed to accommodate multiple sport. Typically this sport is dominated by females improvements and land acquisition for development soccer fields but there are no permanent goals so under the age of 18 or by males if over the age of have been taken into account in developing the plan that other users such as ultimate Frisbee, rugby, field 18. Both the city and the county provide teams for recommendations. Knoxville and Knox County hockey or even someone just wanting to fly a kite adults and youths. The recommended guideline for Parks and Recreation Departments provide facilities can use the field. The standard for these sports were softball is 1 field per 6,000 residents. for various sports including: baseball, basketball, adapted by the city and county parks and recreation football, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis and departments from the recommendations of NRPA. Recommendations: volleyball. The number, design and location of • Monitor the need for additional fields with these facilities are important in meeting community Baseball and Softball—Both the city and county urban and suburban growth. needs. This document uses a combination of the parks and recreation departments provide organized • Design complexes for new fields whereby National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA) baseball programs for youths in the April to August backstops are placed in the corners of a recommended guidelines and standards that have season. The only sector with a deficiency for quadrangular area and movable fences can be been developed by the parks departments with baseball fields is the Southwest County Sector. This used to foster a variety of year round activities. community input. sector is the fastest growing sector in the county. • Continue to develop fields that can be used for Additionally while all the other sectors show a total both softball and youth baseball purposes. In general, there are fewer deficiencies in the surplus of baseball facilities many residential areas • Work with the Town of Farragut to create number of recreational facilities than in the are located more than the recommended one-half additional fields to serve west Knox County amount of park acreage. This means that while mile from a field. interests. there is a lack of park land, many existing parks are developed with various types of facilities or Basketball—The city and county provide both amenities. Historically parks have been divided for indoor and outdoor basketball courts. Youth particular field sports whose space cannot easily be between the ages of 12 and 17 represent the used for other purposes. For example, softball and majority of players, but basketball is also popular baseball fields are typically fenced on a year-round with both younger and older populations. Most of basis which results in the inability to use these areas the indoor basketball facilities are provided by city outside of that sport’s season. Many parks that have recreation centers or schools and access to these recently been developed have utilized multi-purpose courts is limited to the facility’s hours of operation. fields that have a central set of bleachers so that a While the city and county combined have a surplus variety of sports can be accommodated without of courts East City, North County, Northeast having to limit the possible uses of that area to a County, South County and Southwest County Baseball at Northwest Sports Park
27 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Statistics by Sector
City Sectors County Sectors Central East North Northwest South West East North Northeast Northwest South Southwest Total 2006 Population: 51,283 27,645 27,434 30,077 19,873 21,970 14,446 46,009 23,594 67,691 20,873 61,071 411,967 Baseball Quantity 13 20 10 13 8 20 8 9 11 24 8 8 152 Facilities to Meet Guideline 9 5 5 5 4 4 3 8 4 12 4 11 74 Surplus/Deficit 4 15 5 8 4 16 5 1 7 12 4 -3 78 Basketball Quantity 28 5 8 11 12 8 5 6 3 22 3 12 123 Facilities to Meet Guideline 10 6 6 7 4 5 3 9 5 14 5 13 87 Surplus/Deficit 18 -1 2 4 8 3 2 -3 -2 8 -2 -1 36 Football Quantity 6 2 1 1 2 0 1 0 1 2 1 1 18 Facilities to Meet Guideline 3 2 2 2 1 2 1 3 2 4 2 4 28 Surplus/Deficit 3 0 -1 -1 1 -2 0 -3 -1 -2 -1 -3 -10 Soccer Quantity 2 0 3 5 4 3 3 13 1 28 2 10 74 Facilities to Meet Guideline 13 7 7 8 5 6 4 11 6 17 5 16 105 Surplus/Deficit -11 -7 -4 -3 -1 -3 -1 2 -5 11 -3 -6 -31 Softball Quantity 6 0 0 2 1 4 0 4 2 2 3 0 24 Facilities to Meet Guideline 9 5 5 6 4 4 3 8 4 12 4 11 75 Surplus/Deficit -3 -5 -5 -4 -3 0 -3 -4 -2 -10 -1 -11 -51 Swimming Pools Quantity 1 0 1 2 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 8 Facilities to Meet Guideline 3 2 2 2 1 1 1 2 1 3 1 3 22 Surplus/Deficit -2 -2 -1 0 0 -1 0 -1 -1 -2 -1 -3 -14 Tennis Courts Quantity 26 6 17 15 11 1 0 9 5 10 0 4 104 Facilities to Meet Guideline 12 7 7 8 5 6 4 12 6 17 6 16 106 Surplus/Deficit 14 -1 10 7 6 -5 -4 -3 -1 -7 -6 -12 -2 Volleyball Quantity 2 2 3 2 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 6 16 Facilities to Meet Guideline 10 6 5 6 4 4 3 9 5 14 4 12 82 Surplus/Deficit -8 -4 -2 -4 -3 -2 -3 -9 -5 -14 -4 -6 -66
Guidelines:
Baseball: 1 field per 6,000 residents, with a service radius of 1/4 to 1/2 mile, suggested min. size 1.2A (little league) 3.0 Official Softball: 1 field per 6,000 residents, with a service radius of 1/4 to 1/2 mile. Basketball: 1 court per 5,000 residents, with a service radius of 1/4 to 1/2 mile, range from 2400-7980 sq. ft. Swimming Pools: 1 pool per 25,000 population, 15-30 minute drive, 0.5-2.0 Acres in size Football: 1 field per 20,000 residents, with travel time of 15-30 minutes, range from 160’ x 360’ plus 6’ clearance or 1.5 AC minimum. Tennis Courts: 1 court per 4,000 population, 1/4-1/2 mile, minimum of 7,200 sq. ft. in size Soccer: 1 field per 4,000 residents, within 1-2 miles of most population, range from 1.7-2.1Acres. Volleyball:1 court per 5,000 population, 1/2-1 mile, minimum of 4,000 sq. ft. in size
28 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009 each have a deficit of courts based on the 2006 of most residents and the recommended guideline • Develop long-range agreements for soccer population information and the recommended suggests 1 field per 20,000 residents. use with such entities as U.S. Cellular and standard of 1 court per 5,000 residents. Pellissippi State. Recommendations • Where such agreements are not possible, Recommendations • Create additional fields in the North, acquire additional park space for rectangular • Sustain the park departments/ School Board use Northwest and Southwest County Sectors. field uses. policy whereby city and county-run recreation • Monitor the need for additional fields with • Develop more recreational programs for soccer leagues have first right to use schools for suburban growth. in the City. basketball. • Develop outdoor courts at community and Soccer—The city and county both have soccer district parks. programs for youth leagues, the county also provides programs for adults. Additionally, the American Youth Football—Football programs through the parks Soccer Organization (AYSO) provides competition and recreation departments are offered to youths soccer for youths ages 6 to 18. Participation in soccer only. The city and county have separate programs has increased over the last several years and there and use a variety of facilities including parks and was a concern on the part of citizens that there was a middle schools for practice and competitive games. lack of tournament space within Knox County. The
The only city sector with a deficit is the Northwest recommended guideline suggests 1 field per 4,000 Soccer is among the most popular sports. City Sector by one field; however, in the county, residents and within 1-2 miles of most residents; the Northeast, Northwest, South and Southwest by this standard for soccer fields most sectors are Sectors all have a deficiency of at least one field. A deficient. Recognizing that in Knox County, soccer field should be located within 15-30 minutes drive has traditionally been promoted by people living Swimming—The recommended standard for in the suburbs, it is not surprising that the city swimming pools is 1 pool per 25,000 population sectors only have 18 fields where the county has and within a 15 to 30 minute drive for most more than three times that amount with a total of residents. With this recommendation most of the 61. The majority of soccer fields are concentrated in sectors are deficient; however, Knox County has the Northwest County sector. However, increased been moving away from swimming pools in the last demands for soccer fields were strongly heard from several years because of the cost of maintenance and West City and Southwest County interests. liability. Instead the county has been providing zero depth splash pads to meet the needs for summer Recommendations water activities. An issue to consider in the future • Establish more rectangular fields across the city is regulating splash pads for public health because and county for soccer and related field sports they are not currently regulated by the same public (like rugby and lacrosse). health safety standards as swimming pools. Indoor basketball is typically provided at recreation centers.
29 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Recommendations • Work with tennis interests to complete an an additional 20 regulation golf courses in the • Continue cooperative programs and co-location assessment of court conditions at schools and metropolitan area that are open on a daily basis. strategies with quasi-public organizations who parks, replacing nets and refurbishing surfaces The city owns three courses: Knoxville Golf Course manage pools. where warranted. and Whittle Springs Golf Course (both in excess • Create splash pads at select locations that would • Develop programs for youngsters who of 5,300 yards) and Wee Course at Williams Creek serve a broad base of communities (20,000 to traditionally have not been exposed to tennis (2,700 yards, par 54). The county owns the Three 30,000 people). skill development. Ridges Golf Course (6,080 yards). • Sustain the operation of city pools. Volleyball—The courts inventoried were of a Kids’ Courses: There are two public junior golf variety of surfaces some were grass, sand, concrete courses operated by Knox County. They are located or indoor facilities. Volleyball courts were provided within Concord Park and Beverly Park. at Karns High, Mayor Bob Leonard Park, Farragut Anchor Park, Inskip Pool & Park, South Knoxville After a major expansion in adult interest in golfing Optimist Club Park, Milton Roberts Recreation during the 1990s, rounds of play has declined Center, Concord Point Park, EV Davidson nationally and remained stagnant locally in recent Recreation Center, Deane Hill Recreation Center, years. Christenberry Recreation Center, Pond Gap Elementary and Cumberland Estates Recreation Recommendations Center. The recommended guideline for volleyball • Continue to operate and meet golf demand courts is 1 per 5,000, however, this sport appears to with the city and county-owned courses, both Splash pads have become very popular. be in decline and this guideline should be assessed the regulation and kids’ courses. with various interest groups. • Monitor population growth and demographic changes periodically to assess the long range Tennis—The county provides public tennis courts Recommendations need for additional courses. in many of its parks as does the city. The city also • Continue to develop outdoor courts, including • Consider joint city-county management/ operates a tennis program for the public (youths sand courts, in larger parks and water-oriented maintenance agreements for the public courses. and adults) at the Tyson Family Tennis Center. The parks. recommended guideline for tennis courts is 1 per • Foster initial court development in places with Skateparks—Skateparks, when started in this 4,000 citizens. By this standard, all county sectors a larger concentration of teenagers and young country in 1970s, were originally built for are deficient and the East and West City sectors are adults. skateboarding. However, they are now also used deficient. by roller bladers, BMX riders and scooters. Some Golf —Regulation and “Executive” Courses: Recommendations places limit the use of BMX biking (altogether or Currently, there are 14 golf courses that are • Complete phase two of the West Hills Park to managed times). A skatepark contains various opened to the public in Knox County. There are tennis center. ramps and “pipes” to accommodate maneuvers of
30 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009 the enthusiasts. The number of parks have grown established, including those at Morningside, Admiral Recreation Centers and Sports Complexes— markedly in recent years. Locally, skateparks can be Farragut and Victor Ashe Parks. During the public involvement processes, the found in Concord, Powell and Tyson Parks. Another public asked the parks departments to consider will be opened in Fountain City. The demand for Recommendations “giant parks and recreation centers” (2-4 scattered these facilities is likely to grow, particularly with • Continue to develop Disc Golf courses in throughout the county) with activities for all suburban development and as new skating and larger parks, creating a few more courses for a ages. In the sector park plan maps (see Chapters scooter equipment is developed. better distribution across the city and county. VI and VII), the general locations for such district • Program the use of soccer and other rectangular recreation centers are depicted. These facilities Recommendation fields for Ultimate Frisbee users. should be developed for both indoor and outdoor • Develop skate parks in strategically-oriented recreation purposes. Several centers in other spaces and parks whereby these facilities are Dog Parks—Dog parks represent another emerging Tennessee cities, such as that of Murfreesboro, could distributed in each county sector and in each trend in public (and canine) recreation. These serve as models. remaining quadrant of the city (east, south and facilities have been developed at Victor Ashe and west). Tommy Schumpert Parks, and at Pet Safe Village Another benefit to these large scale recreation near Dutchtown Road. Two additional parks are centers/parks would be the ability to host Frisbee and Disc Golf Facilities—Two very different on the drawing boards: one near the Old City and tournaments for various sports. Sports tournaments Frisbee games, Ultimate Frisbee and Disc Golf, another at Concord Park. have proven economically viable here and other have become popular, particularly with teenagers cities in the region to bolster the local economy and young adults. Ultimate Frisbee is played on a Recommendation through the use of hotels, restaurants and other rectangular field like soccer. Disc Golf is played in a • Continue to work with such organizations as associated facilities. The provision for major natural open setting (looking like a short golf course Pet Safe to develop dog parks in larger parks, recreation centers will not only benefit the local with basket-like goals). Several courses have been providing a reasonable distribution in urban population but will provide another reason for and suburban areas. people to visit Knoxville and Knox County.
Disc Golf at Victor Ashe Park Caswell Park serves as a sports complex. The senior and family recreation centers bolster its popularity.
31 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
32 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009 VI. Plan Recommendations—City Sectors
Introduction In order to implement the proposals on the The following recommendations include several This chapter contains the park and greenway following pages, capital improvement programming, proposals for smaller, neighborhood serving plan recommendations for each sector in the using local, state and federal funds will be needed. facilities in the city. The creation of new parks city. A plan map is presented for each sector. However, there are several other public and private should include public input and should be designed Because sector plans are updated periodically, programs that can be developed to create the park to meet the needs of the residents the facility is the recommendations of this chapter can also be system; they are identified in Chapter VII. intended to serve. updated without having to overhaul the entire city- county park plan. As a long range plan, it will take years to realize Central City Sector the proposed park and greenway improvements. Because of its historic neighborhood schools and In developing the recommendations for the six In order to give direction to the acquisition and through the success of early 20th century park city sectors, several tools were used to determine improvement programs, MPC and the city and planning, this sector has a good distribution of park the proposed locations for parks. The first step county park departments have outlined short and and public resources. The keys to the improvement was examining the existing system, making mid-range objectives. See the appendices for the program are reclaiming underutilized sites (for recommendations for improvements to the existing following: example, abandoned schools, continuing to upgrade system, and then determining which areas were • Appendix C: Park Acquisition existing parks and forming greenway connections.) being served and which areas were under served. Recommendations This was done using a combination of public input • Appendix E: Greenway Priorities Recommendations: Park Acquisitions and from meetings and surveys and mapping analysis. • Appendix F: Short term Improvement Program Reuse of Public Resources for Existing Parks (See Appendix D.) Neighborhood parks and squares—Acquire space for new neighborhood parks (5 to 10 acres each) or squares (1 to 5 acres each) in the general vicinity indicated on the plan: Cherry Street Square (creating a gateway to Five Points and the Magnolia corridor); Kelso Park (if rehabilitation of this former industrial yard is feasible); and Montcastle Park expansion or reconfiguration (making a more direct connection between the university and Cumberland Avenue; see concept in the Cumberland Avenue Plan); and a new square or park on the Walter P. Taylor Homes site at the time of its redevelopment. Victor Ashe Park Lonsdale Park is neighborhood serving. Details regarding other proposals follow.
33 kj
The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreationn and Greenways Plan December 2009 kj n Central City Sector n y kj a w North en e Y r A City Sector G W e D g A d O n i R B R N s s ¨§640 p r ha Kelso East kj Sharps S Æc kj ay Park City Sector Ridge w en Mem. Park re G Lincoln Park Æc Elementary kj e Æc g F id n R ir Belle s Christenberry st n rp Cr Belle Morris a E G h AV Elem. Elem. C Ledgerwood Morris BRUH S TI r IN AN e R L Park Park D AT kjPark e E n n y V A Christenberry Comm. Ctr. w kj New Hope L Northwest a L E n a K Rec. Ctr. w IS Christenberry Fulton City Sector E y n H e Ballfields Bicentennial First e H r A R Park Fulton Cr. Park G S Oakwood V E kj E V n n t N e Y E A s S V High S 40 e I N c Elementary T A X ¨§ J O W O o D T T H N H G A N N
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34 n kj n Æc Æc The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Belle Morris Park—Create a neighborhood and First Creek Greenway Extension—Link the Park and Greenway Proposals linear park, connecting to First Creek Greenway existing greenway to Caswell Park, continue south to Proposed Parks: General Vicinity (using utility corridor and related space). the Old City via the former railroad line and on to Neighborhood Park the James White Greenway. Community Park Lincoln Park School Reuse—Reclaim the asphalt District/Regional Park areas as public park space, marking on-street parking Lonsdale Greenway—To buffer the neighborhood District Recreation Center for evening school use, and provide an outdoor and provide access to Sharps Ridge and Second basketball court. Another option for a neighborhood Proposed Parks: Specific Location Creek Greenways, extend this greenway to Buck park within the Lincoln Park neighborhood is the Neighborhood Park Toms Park. Community Park vacant parcels surrounding the Lincoln Park United District / Regional Park Methodist Church and west of the railroad line. This Second Creek Greenway—Connect along Second park could provide multipurpose open space and Creek between Lonsdale and World’s Fair Park. An Proposed Greenways and Blueways provide a walking loop within the park. extension of this greenway would link the World’s Greenway Fair Park with the Old City and the proposed First Greenway Connector Oakwood School Reuse—Preserve this century- Creek Greenway. Ridge Conservation Corridor old school, a property eligible for National !| Blueway Access Location Register of Historic Places. Additionally, reuse the Sharps Ridge Greenway—Create a natural-surface school building for housing or a neighborhood trail from Sharps Ridge Memorial Park extending to Existing Park Facilities serving public facility. Remove the asphalt areas to McAnnally Ridge. Community and District/Regional Parks accommodate a neighborhood park. Neighborhood Park Greenway Connectors—North Central Street, Open Space / Natural Area UT/Fort Sanders Neighborhood Square—Create Western Avenue, Cumberland Avenue and Magnolia Private/Quasi-public Parks a public square at the corner of Laurel Avenue and Avenue are the major streets that should be Golf Courses Sixteenth Street (currently a surface parking lot). The n School Parks improved to safely accommodate both pedestrians kj Public Recreation Center site is associated with Civil War history. The square and bicyclists. kj Quasi-public Recreation Centers should be designed to accommodate festivals, music Greenways and related special events in conjunction with the Recommendation: Recreation Center !| Blueway Access Location Laurel Theatre. Lonsdale Recreation Center—Expand the existing !| Blueway Rest Stop facility to provide space for league basketball and Proposed Greenways and Greenway Other Information other community uses, or consider expanding the Connectors Æc Libraries gym facilities at Lonsdale Elementary School and The sector’s major greenway systems should include: Streams allow for public access, this could be accomplished City of Knoxville Boundary through a partnership between Knoxville City Parks Planning Sector Boundary and Recreation and the Knox County School Board.
35 ay w en re G ek re C r ve ea B
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The Knoxville-Knoxn nCounty Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009 n East City Sector kj
SOUTH ¨§640 MALL RD !| Northeast North RD LL MI AT County Sector City Sector F n F ay U R B nw D e W e IE Richard r V e G Y Leake g LLE d VA Ri Rec. Ctr. Spring Buffat s S p kj P r Hill Elem. R Milll a y IN Sh a G Park nw H Gree I ine L rl Alice Bell n L e R Holston w Park And D Po n Chilhowee N Ballfields L F K AI N Ballfields!| A D R Milton O V W C E L A H IT B Y H Whittle T IL Roberts N R W O H n M D O N. Gate W Springs IR W Rec. Ctr. kj H A F E I A T Whittle U E kj Terrace Ctr. T Middle L L T D E R R y Springs S D P D a R R Y 40 IN Golf L A L § Chilhowee I ¨ G w E M W S IK T Prosser D R P A Intermed. n F A D N F O U Road Park O e Boright T B R G n e B IN r H N N R Wolfe Park S P A R G W O Picnic Area N. Hills S Zoo Dr r S C E Æc R HO t NORTH HILLS BLVD Park Park LSTON DR R s VE A D kj ir D F Larry OO Burlinton EW Cox Sr. G Library SKYLINE DR ED Æc Ctr. Burlington Park kj C Æc R A Square East S n W E C AV Chilhowee F H Edgewood L O IL CI Burlington H E R F O C Park D A W Park E E R Park E V N D E S R T E AV C kj A MAN L n IL BEA AKE L RD W kj Austin- ES Holston S TS n CClaude Walker R U East High A D D N S Skyline AL SE Hills Park T N T ParkL And DO R N Magnet E MC D C S Park H BallfieldsT E R R n kj Y S T E.V. Davidson Rec. Ctr.
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Æc Æc The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
East City Sector Recommendations: Greenways and Park and Greenway Proposals A portion of this sector was once Park City, so Greenway Connectors Proposed Parks: General Vicinity named in respect to Chilhowee Park and other parks The sector’s major greenway systems should include: Neighborhood Park east of First Creek. While the park infrastructure Community Park is relatively good, there are several themes for Holston River Greenway—Connect to the existing District/Regional Park improvements that should be pursued: better day- James White Greenway and the proposed Williams District Recreation Center to-day access to existing resources (like the south Creek Greenway to Holston River Park and
Proposed Parks: Specific Location side of Chilhowee Park), more neighborhood parks Holston Hills (pursuing a trail easement through Neighborhood Park and squares that are surrounded by houses and the UT farm). Community Park connections in the greenway system, especially District / Regional Park along the Holston River and Williams Creek. Loves Creek Greenway—Develop this portion of the greenway running from the Holston River Proposed Greenways and Blueways Recommendations: New parks and squares northwest to Asheville Highway and Interstate 40. Greenway Neighborhood parks and squares—Acquire Greenway Connector Sarah M. Greene Greenway Connectors— space for new neighborhood parks (5 to 10 Ridge Conservation Corridor Continue connections to the Botanical Gardens and acres each) or squares (1 to 5 acres each) in the !| Blueway Access Location Austin East High School. general vicinity indicated on the plan: Harrison Existing Park Facilities Street Square; East Burlington Park (between Sharps Ridge Greenway—Acquire easements to Community and District/Regional Parks Holston Drive and Skyline Drive, and east of create a trail running the length of the ridge. Neighborhood Park Dickson Street); Burlington Square (as noted in Open Space / Natural Area the Magnolia Corridor Plan); Williams Creek Williams Creek Greenway—Follow the creek from Private/Quasi-public Parks Park; Zoo Drive Park (adapting this edge of the the river through the Wee Golf Course and into the Golf Courses fairgrounds for multi-purpose uses, including Five Points/Austin East High School area. n School Parks field space); Burlington Library Park; and Holston kj Public Recreation Center Hills Neighborhood Park (possibly utilizing the kj Greenway Connectors—Magnolia Avenue/ Quasi-public Recreation Centers neighborhood-owned pocket park). Greenways Asheville Highway and the streets leading to the !| Blueway Access Location arboretum are the most significant streets that Prosser Road Community Park—Develop a !| Blueway Rest Stop should be improved to safely accommodate both park on city-owned parcel, consider a partnership pedestrians and bicyclists. Other Information with the Kiwanis club located across the street. Æc Libraries If a partnership is established, this community Streams park could serve multiple neighborhoods City of Knoxville Boundary including: Plantation Hills, Woodland Terrace and Planning Sector Boundary Gillenwater.
37 kj
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The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009 Æc
North City Sector
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kj The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
North City Sector City Lake Park to the existing First Creek Greenway Park and Greenway Proposals The key issues in this sector are the creation of new with a spur to Whittle Springs Middle School. Proposed Parks: General Vicinity neighborhood parks in its rapidly growing suburbs The development of the trail should be planned Neighborhood Park and the creation of the greenways along First Creek, in conjunction with Broadway/I-640 interchange Community Park White’s Creek and Murphy Creek. improvements and flood management programs. District/Regional Park Recommendations: New parks and squares Inskip/I-75 Greenway—Connect the Inskip Pool District Recreation Center and Park, and the Inskip Ballfields. Neighborhood parks and squares—Acquire space Knob Fork Greenway—Connect the existing Proposed Parks: Specific Location for new neighborhood parks or squares in the general vicinity indicated on the plan: Dante Park, Haynes Sterchi Greenway with the proposed Beaver Creek Neighborhood Park Park, Grove Park, Briercliff Park, Creek Crossing Park Greenway. Community Park (at the confluence Murphy and White’s Creek), and Sterchi Branch Greenway—Connect Sterchi District / Regional Park Highland Drive Park (develop as a passive park and Elementary and surrounding neighborhoods garden in partnership with neighborhood interests). Proposed Greenways and Blueways to the Sterchi and the proposed Knob Fork Greenways. Greenway Fountain City Skate Park—This park is being designed as a cooperative effort between the city Greenway Connector Upper First Creek Greenway and Fountain City and the community to provide a plaza style skate Ridge Conservation Corridor Connectors—Provide a trail from Cedar Lane to park, gazebo, bleacher, sidewalk connections and Knox Road, linking Fountain City to Schumpert !| Blueway Access Location landscaping. Additionally this property should Park and Sterchi Greenway. Use bike and pedestrian connect by a greenway to Adair Park and Fountain Existing Park Facilities facilities to connect to Central High, Gresham City Lake Park. Middle and Fountain City Elementary Schools. Community and District/Regional Parks Franklin Square—Acquire land or partner with Neighborhood Park Whites Creek and Murphy Creek Greenways— the Disabled Veterans Association to develop Open Space / Natural Area Use the floodplains along the creeks to create recreational uses of this space. The parcel currently connections from First Creek Greenway and the Private/Quasi-public Parks has a building for the local chapter of the neighborhoods to the proposed Creek Crossing and Golf Courses association and open space. It is located next to Luttrell Lane Parks and Ritta Elementary School. n School Parks local streets and could accommodate a playground kj Public Recreation Center and some passive recreation opportunities. Greenway Connectors—Broadway, Bruhin Road, kj Central Avenue Pike, Cedar Lane, Rifle Range Quasi-public Recreation Centers Recommendations: Greenways and Greenways Road and Tazewell Pike are the foremost roads that Greenway Connectors should be improved to safely accommodate both !| Blueway Access Location The sector’s major greenway systems should include: pedestrians and bicyclists. !| Blueway Rest Stop Adair Drive Greenway and Adair Extension— Recommendation: Recreation Center Other Information Connect from the Sue Clancy Greenway (which Oakland Recreation Center—Preserve the existing Æc Libraries is part of Adair Park) to First Creek. Develop the extension trail south of the cemetery on the ridge. structure for its merits as part of African American Streams history. Improve public access and develop an City of Knoxville Boundary First Creek Greenway (the northward extension)— improvement program. Planning Sector Boundary Acquire easements and create a trail from Fountain
39 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Northwest City Sector Cavet Station Greenway—Link the existing Ten The creation of Victor Ashe Park solved a Mile Creek Greenway with the existing Jean Teague Park and Greenway Proposals major shortcoming in this area: the need for Greenway in West Hills Park. Proposed Parks: General Vicinity Neighborhood Park a large, multipurpose park. Development in Papermill Bluff Greenway—Create this greenway Community Park the West City Sector followed rapid suburban in conjunction with the improvements to Interstate District/Regional Park growth between 1950 and 1980. In most cases, 40/75 at Papermill Road and provide a connection District Recreation Center neighborhoods sprung up without parks. The from Pond Gap Elementary to the existing keys to the improvement program are creating a Weisgarber Greenway. Proposed Parks: Specific Location better distribution of smaller parks within walking Neighborhood Park Pond Gap Greenway—This greenway should be distance of residents and forming greenway Community Park created as buffer to and recreation resource for the connections. District / Regional Park neighborhood north of Lonas Drive. Recommendations: New Parks and Natural Proposed Greenways and Blueways Areas Third Creek Greenway (the northward Greenway extension)—Connect the Third Creek Greenway Neighborhood parks Greenway Connector —Acquire space for new in the Bearden area to the greenway system at Ridge Conservation Corridor neighborhood parks (5 to 10 acres each) in the Victor Ashe Park and Northwest Middle School, !| Blueway Access Location general vicinity indicated on the plan: Westbrook preserving the lands along this branch of Third Park, Oak Road Park, Victor Drive Park, Lonas Creek as a permanent natural area. Existing Park Facilities Drive Park (consider a partnership including the Community and District/Regional Parks United Way, Knox Racquet Club, or the Elks Greenway connectors—Sidepaths (for biking Neighborhood Park Lodge in providing this facility), Wilson Road Park, and walking) are partially established along Open Space / Natural Area Murray Drive Park and Montwood Drive Park. Middlebrook Pike; more connections are needed to Private/Quasi-public Parks link the Weisgarber and Jean Teague greenways and Pond Gap Natural Area Golf Courses —Work the school board provide a connection to Bearden Middle School. n School Parks to set aside the wetland south of Interstate 40 for Other major bicycle-pedestrian connectors include kj Public Recreation Center environmental conservation and education purposes. Western Avenue, Clinton Highway, Pleasant Ridge kj Quasi-public Recreation Centers Inskip Ballfields Expansion—Expand the Inskip Road and Merchant Drive. Greenways Ballfields into adjacent property that consists of ap- Recommendations: Recreation Centers !| Blueway Access Location proximately seven acres of floodplain and forested Cumberland Estates Recreation Center—Create !| Blueway Rest Stop lands. This new addition could be used primarily for a master plan for this resource and expand the Other Information such activities as nature and walking paths. opportunities for outdoor recreation. Æc Libraries Recommendations: Greenways and Streams Greenway Connectors City of Knoxville Boundary The sector’s major greenway systems should include: Planning Sector Boundary
40 Æc n n kj n Æc n The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009 n NorthwestÆc City Sector North County Sector
DR AHAN AHAN DR CALL CALL OLD n North City Sector D R D SCHAA
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kj n The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
South City Sector and master plan provided by the East Tennessee This sector has some of the largest park and Community Design Center. Park and Greenway Proposals recreation resources in Knox County, including • William Hastie Natural Area—Provide natural Proposed Parks: General Vicinity Neighborhood Park Ijams Nature Center, the State Wildlife surface trails that connect to the surrounding Community Park Management Area, Hastie Natural Area and Civil neighborhoods, Marie Myers Park, and Ijams District/Regional Park War resources. The key to the development of Nature Center. District Recreation Center the system is to establish unbroken connections through greenway trails. Greenways and Greenway Connectors Proposed Parks: Specific Location A greenway is an open space corridor marked by Neighborhood Park Recommendations: paved or unpaved paths that accommodate bicycle Community Park Close-to-Home Parks and pedestrian uses. Many greenways are located District / Regional Park The National Recreation and Park Association along creeks or rivers, providing users access to Proposed Greenways and Blueways (NRPA) recommends that communities meet a nature and an alternative means of transportation. minimum standard of 6.25 acres of close to-home • Baker Creek Greenway—Connect to the Greenway parks for every 1,000 people. In comparing that proposed James White Parkway Greenway to Greenway Connector standard to the South City Sector’s 2009 population Island Home Park and south to Mary James Park. Ridge Conservation Corridor (19,814), the sector is deficient by 25.3 acres. As • James White Greenway—Include a separated !| Blueway Access Location greenway as part of roadway construction if the subdivisions are created, a provision for neighborhood Existing Park Facilities parkway is extended. parks is a typical goal in most communities. Community and District/Regional Parks • Smoky Mountain Railroad Greenway— Neighborhood Park Follow the former railroad line, connecting New Parks, Squares and Additions Open Space / Natural Area South Waterfront with Charter E. Doyle Park The acquisition of space for new neighborhood Private/Quasi-public Parks parks (5 to 10 acres each) or squares and plazas (1 and South Knoxville neighborhoods. Also, Golf Courses to 5 acres each) should be sought in the general develop a connection to the William Hastie n School Parks vicinity of the proposed sites on the park plan map. Natural Area. kj Public Recreation Center • South Waterfront Greenway and connected kj Quasi-public Recreation Centers Park and Recreation Center Improvements trails—Extend the South Waterfront trail and Greenways • Cecil Webb Park—Creation of a master plan create a natural surface trail from Ijams Nature !| Blueway Access Location to link Cecil Webb Park and Cecil Webb Center through Marie Myers Park to William !| Blueway Rest Stop Recreation Center; consider an expanded open Hastie Natural Area. Other Information space system linking Dogwood Elementary and • Greenway connectors—Chapman Highway Æc Libraries and Moody Avenue are the two major roads the old South Knoxville High School. Streams that should be improved to safely accommodate • Sam Duff Memorial Park—Improvements to City of Knoxville Boundary both pedestrians and bicyclists, where capable. the park should be based on the public process Planning Sector Boundary
42 kj kj kj kj !| kj kj
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RD EY N LL E A U V B RD E O R F T Gary W S P R Underwood IN G S R Park D / 0 0.25 0.5 0.75 1 South County Sector Mile n 43 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
West City Sector This sector contains the most established greenway Park and Greenway Proposals Proposed Parks: General Vicinity system of Knoxville-Knox County and two of our Neighborhood Park “flagship” parks (Lakeshore and Sequoyah Hills Community Park Parks). The foremost goal should be to continue to District/Regional Park make safe pedestrian and bicycle connections. District Recreation Center
Recommendations: New Parks Proposed Parks: Specific Location Neighborhood parks—Acquire space for new Neighborhood Park neighborhood parks (3 to 5 acres each) in the Community Park general vicinity indicated on the plan: Branch Park District / Regional Park Above: Sequoyah Park, which has space for exercise as well as rest, is and Westland Park. a model for the entire park system. Proposed Greenways and Blueways Greenway Recommendations: Greenways and Below: The Lakeshore Park Greenway should be connected to the Bearden Greenway via Fourth Creek. Greenway Connector Greenway Connectors Ridge Conservation Corridor Fourth Creek Greenway—Connect Lakeshore Park !| Blueway Access Location to the existing Weisgarber and Bearden Greenways. Existing Park Facilities Community and District/Regional Parks Lockett Road Greenway —Utilize the wide Neighborhood Park floodplain behind the existing businesses to Open Space / Natural Area provide a greenway for the benefit of workers and Private/Quasi-public Parks surrounding neighborhoods. Golf Courses n School Parks Sequoyah Hills Greenway—Create an extension kj Public Recreation Center that would run along Blow’s Ferry Road and kj Quasi-public Recreation Centers Noelton Drive to link the Bearden, Third Creek and Greenways Sequoyah Greenways. !| Blueway Access Location !| Blueway Rest Stop The recommended greenway connectors (the bicycle/ Other Information pedestrian facilities along roadways) include Deane Æc Libraries Hill Connector (specifically connecting the recreation Streams center to the Lockett Road and Fourth Creek City of Knoxville Boundary Greenways and the Lyons View Pike Connector). Planning Sector Boundary
44 Æc kj Æc kj The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009 n n kj West City Sector kj
Central Northwest City Sector City Sector
Papermill Bluff Greenwayn
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N E w D n W R e n O D Bearden ON e D AS r GLE G High Deane Hill Rec d kj an Ctr Expansion el Lake way South r sh en Luxmore Dr o ore G re stm !| County Sector e DR Natural Area W E Westland DG RI IN Park BB NU Rocky Hill Elem. DR RE HO HS RD RT W Rocky Hill NO IE n S V n R R Ballfields
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45 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
46 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009 VII. Plan Recommendations: County Sectors
Introduction using local, state and federal funds will be needed. recreational facilities that would provide both This chapter contains the park and greenway However, there are several other public and private indoor and outdoor recreation for all age users. plan recommendations for each sector in the programs that can be developed to create the park There are five city and county serving district unincorporated areas of Knox County. A plan map system; they are identified in Chapter VII. recreation centers recommended in this plan. The is presented for each sector. Because sector plans creation of new parks should include public input are updated periodically, the recommendations of As a long range plan, it will take years to realize and should be designed to meet the needs of the this chapter can also be updated without having to the proposed park and greenway improvements. residents the facility is intended to serve. overhaul the entire city-county park plan. In order to give direction to the acquisition and improvement programs, MPC and the city and In developing the recommendations for the six county park departments have outlined short and county sectors, several tools were used to determine mid-range objectives. See the appendices for the the proposed locations for parks. The first step following: was examining the existing system, making • Appendix C: Park Acquisition recommendations for improvements to the existing Recommendations system, and then determining which areas were • Appendix E: Greenway Priorities being served and which areas were under served. • Appendix F: Short term Improvement Program This was done using a combination of public input for Existing Parks from meetings and surveys and mapping analysis (see Appendix D). The following recommendations include several proposals for both neighborhood and community New Harvest Park In order to implement the proposals on the parks. Additionally, the public meetings and following pages, capital improvement programming, surveys showed that citizens desired several large
Seven Islands Wildlife Refuge protects habitat, environment, and view sheds. Pet Safe Dog Park
47 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Æc n East County Sector !|
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/ 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 Mile n 48 n The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
East County Sector Mule Hollow Greenway—Develop a trail and Park and Greenway Proposals The greatest need in East Knox County is to begin open space corridor along the ridge that continues Proposed Parks: General Vicinity a neighborhood park acquisition program so that along the river or John Sevier Highway. Neighborhood Park future residents will be within walking distance of Community Park recreation space as neighborhoods develop. Swanpond Creek and Ramsey Greenways— District/Regional Park Create a trail along this creek, providing connection from current and future neighborhoods to the Forks District Recreation Center Recommendations: Park Acquisition of the River Park and to the Ramsey House. Neighborhood parks—Acquire space for new Proposed Parks: Specific Location neighborhood parks (5 to 10 acres each) in the Tuckahoe-Limestone Creek Greenway—Create Neighborhood Park general vicinity indicated on the plan map: Ruggles an open space system along this state scenic Community Park Ferry Park, Sunnyview Park, Hammer Road Park, river resource, protecting the stream corridor District / Regional Park Swanpond Creek Park, Flint Gap Park, Perry Road and floodplain. Create a path, connecting the Park, Pine Grove Park, Sinking Creek Park, Lyon Thorngrove Community Park with Seven Islands Proposed Greenways and Blueways Creek Park and Corum Road Park. At Flint Gap Wildlife Refuge. Greenway Park consider partnering with existing church to Greenway Connector provide a park. At Sunnyview, acquire about 5 acres Lyon Creek Greenway—Provide a trail from for additional public park and school activities. Ridge Conservation Corridor the Holston River to Carter High, Middle and !| Blueway Access Location Elementary Schools as well as the library and senior Community parks—at Midway set aside 10-20 center at Carter Park. acres for a community park in conjunction with new Existing Park Facilities development; the open space could be part of an on- Recommendations: Recreation Centers Community and District/Regional Parks site wastewater treatment system. Create a community Neighborhood Park park along Drinnen Creek in Riverdale, providing 10 East District Recreation Center—Provide a Open Space / Natural Area to 20 acres for active and passive recreation. recreation center and park space that will provide Private/Quasi-public Parks amenities for people of all ages, including both Golf Courses Recommendations: Greenways and indoor and outdoor, active and passive recreation. n School Parks Greenway Connectors This center should be located along a major arterial such as Asheville Highway and should be geared kj Public Recreation Center French Broad Conservation Area Greenway— toward serving a population of 20,000. kj Quasi-public Recreation Centers Preserve open space system along the river. Provide Greenways a trail system, using a combination of land near the Equestrian Center concept—Horseback riding is !| Blueway Access Location river, and space along Thorngrove Pike and Kodak one of the pastimes of area residents as well as others !| Blueway Rest Stop Road. Consider a horse trail as part of this system. beyond the sector. With its large extent of rural area, the rural portion of this sector is a logical place Other Information Greenway Connectors—Asheville Highway, Æc for an equestrian center where lessons, dressage and Libraries Brakebill Road, John Sevier Highway and Ruggles other riding activities could be programmed. The Streams Ferry Road (all within city and county growth areas) French Broad Conservation Corridor should be City of Knoxville Boundary are the most significant roads that should be improved considered in making a location decision. Planning Sector Boundary to safely accommodate pedestrians and bicyclists.
49 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
North County Sector
H IL L R RD D D O O W R LOY D D STO N R N U R R R E D L L V L A U E B W S A M O H T kj y RD Y RD a LE OD L WO VA w S A R X D E K K n T R A e L e C r G R D Y Y n E L u L A V R N N O l R O l D P C A C u G A H D T I R R N L B A L L E E S R L A E E D L B AN P DE RS n O N V I n L L Copper Ridge E ELKINS R P RD D IK TER E UM Park and T S OR F D R Natural Area T AT N D M Y R A M K K Y L N L R E A T O R D Y HILL D R R D V O O I G L I L D E FL E E P P y E A N I a O N K w R D E n E M e DR R e I Y r L E S McCloud L L L D O G R A R
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CLINT R Sector ON H D n County WY kj kj AN R H A Northwest D L N N L Sector A A H C A LL City Sector A n n C P D LE L A O Central S A N kj Æc T kj 0 0.75 1.5 2.25 3 R ID City Sector Mile G / E R Æc D Murray kjÆc n Drive Park n nkj n kj 50 n n kj kj kj kj kj kjkj kj kj kj kj kj !| kj kj kj kj kj kj !| kj !| !| !| !| !| !| !| !| !| kj !| kj !| kj !| !|
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kj kj !| The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
North County Sector study of the site and creating a master plan for Park and Greenway Proposals The greatest need in North Knox County is to appropriate uses that could be added to an expanded Proposed Parks: General Vicinity continue to make connections in the greenway park. Neighborhood Park trail system along Beaver Creek. That feature with Community Park its broad floodplain can truly be the spine that Recommendations: Greenways and Greenway Connectors District/Regional Park connects the schools, parks and libraries together. Neighborhood park acquisition within walking District Recreation Center Bull Run Creek Greenway—Preserve the distance of all neighborhoods should also be a environmental resources and lands along the creek. priority in this rapidly growing sector. Proposed Parks: Specific Location Beaver Creek and Knob Fork Greenways—Acquire Neighborhood Park Recommendations: Park Acquisition land and easements to create greenways that Community Park would run through the Halls, Powell and Karns Neighborhood parks—Acquire space for new District / Regional Park communities. These greenways could connect to the neighborhood parks (5 to 10 acres each) in the existing Halls and Powell Greenways and connect to Proposed Greenways and Blueways general vicinity indicated on the plan map: Bell several schools and parks. Greenway Campground Road, Greenwell Road, Copeland Road, McCloud Road, Pelleaux and Alan Branch. Willow Fork Greenway—This greenway would Greenway Connector connect to the existing Halls Greenway and provide Copper Ridge Park and Natural Area—Protect the Ridge Conservation Corridor a trail to Willow Creek Park and to the Gibbs natural resources of portions of Bull Run and Copper !| Blueway Access Location community. Ridges and the Bull Run floodplain with open space Existing Park Facilities and recreation areas. Recommend acquiring 50 or I-475 Greenway—Recommended as a part of the Community and District/Regional Parks more acres for a district park that will serve active and state parkway. passive recreation needs. Neighborhood Park Greenway Connectors—Central Avenue Pike, Open Space / Natural Area Heiskell Community Park—Acquire 10-20 acres Clinton Highway, Conner Road, Maynardville Private/Quasi-public Parks to serve the community’s future playfield needs; Highway, Racoon Valley Road, Brushy Valley Golf Courses locate adjacent or as part of the proposed Bull Run Drive, and Norris Freeway (all within the County’s Greenway. Planned Growth Area) are the most significant roads n School Parks that should be improved to safely accommodate kj Public Recreation Center Powell Community Park—Acquire 20 or more pedestrians and bicyclists. kj Quasi-public Recreation Centers acres for a community serving park between the high school and the library that could connect with the Greenways Recommendation: Recreation Center !| Blueway Access Location proposed greenway. North District Recreation Center !| Blueway Rest Stop Riggs Park—expand the Mayo Conservation area —Provide a with a neighborhood-oriented park. recreation center and park space that will provide Other Information amenities for all ages and user types including both Tommy Schumpert Park Expansion Æc Libraries —as suburban indoor and outdoor recreation. This center should be development increases in what was once a rural Streams located along a major arterial such as Emory Road in area, it could prove to be problematic to continue City of Knoxville Boundary the I-75 vicinity and should be geared toward serving rifle range use. If the rifle range closes, this plan 20,000-40,000 users. Planning Sector Boundary recommends conducting an environmental impact
51 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
O C D P L E O R Northeast County SectorA D K I R L R P R L E T Y H K L E A L T I E G E R Z E O T K H R W N D E E T I W R W R P A
R Z U D D Y E A L O D T N 6 L N 1 O O L O W T P T I R Y G K O R N D I E G R H E O ORY RD R S EM S C E Corryton A R North County Sector E D Æc W IK P Park L L Fla L le kj E t t Corryton RD W t C OD E i Corryton Z r WO L e Comm. Ctr. A e D k T Gr R eenw Elementary L L Corryton n E a
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R H R D D E Expansion O B R O B M Gibbs L L R C L P O I E U E R S R K C B School F I L O F P E N N n R O R E D T D D S K D R G I CHLAN M C n P RI C M IN K A H H E I J S NN O O A G E R D D Y O R W S RY E R L O L D R M House R E T D E D U D R R Mountain A E M D D DU R Fairview R Park I S S Park Rd IN C ON R K L S O E E D OH R W A O R B
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o R M t n O S s E kj North W o O Sentertown O H City D Park !| R Sector D D Love R n IS n Creek R R A Rutledge Natural Area H Æc Park E IK P kj E East County G D E ay L L w !| n T Sector O een V U Gr n E R x n S e n C m Æc R Ce E
E kj K R Central East City n D City Sector n !| Sectorkjn Love Cr. kj / 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 n Mile kj kj Æc kjÆc 52 n nkj kj kj kj kj kj kj kjkj kj kj !| kj kj kj kj kj kj kj kj kj !| kj kj !| !| !| !| !| !| !| !| !| kj !| kj !| kj !| !|
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kj The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Northeast County Sector Mc Bee Community Park—Create a 20 to 40 acre Park and Greenway Proposals Northeast Knox County has been among the faster park on the Holston, which includes playing fields Proposed Parks: General Vicinity growing sectors. Close-to-home park acquisition has and non-motorized boating access. Neighborhood Park not kept pace with subdivision development. Like Community Park other once rural areas, there are no neighborhood Ritta Elementary School/Park Expansion—Expand existing facilities by 10-20 acres to provide for District/Regional Park parks, small parks within walking distance of families; community park uses. District Recreation Center such parks should be a major goal as should the greenway system. Recommendations: Greenways and Proposed Parks: Specific Location Greenway Connectors Recommendations: Park Acquisition Neighborhood Park Beaver Creek Greenway—Provide trail connections Community Park Neighborhood parks—Acquire space for new from the existing and future neighborhoods to the neighborhood parks in the general vicinity indicated District / Regional Park Gibbs schools and Gibbs Ruritan Park. on the plan map: Rutledge Park, Beeler Road Park, Proposed Greenways and Blueways Fairview Road Park, Sentertown Park, Trout Road Eastbridge Greenway—Provide a trail loop around Greenway Park and Ellistown Park. the business park. Greenway Connector Brookfield Community Park —Use existing county Flat Creek Greenway—Connecting to the proposed Ridge Conservation Corridor acreage along Tazewell Pike to create a community park. !| Blueway Access Location Beaver Creek Greenway, it would preserve the floodplain and connect to Eastbridge Park and Corryton Elementary School/Park Expansion— Mascot Park. Existing Park Facilities Acquire 10-20 acres adjacent to the school to provide Community and District/Regional Parks a community park within this area. Murphy Creek Greenway—This extension leads to Neighborhood Park White Creek. Open Space / Natural Area East Knox Elementary School/Park Expansion— Acquire 10-20 acres to increase community serving Private/Quasi-public Parks Holston River Greenway—Acquire land and recreation at the school and existing park. Golf Courses easements to create a trail that follows the river from n School Parks House Mountain Park and Natural Area the county line to Asheville Highway. kj Public Recreation Center expansion—Acquire 20 plus acres at the toe of kj Roseberry Creek Greenway—This greenway should Quasi-public Recreation Centers House Mountain to accommodate a community park connect existing and future neighborhoods to the Greenways for playfields and picnicking and as an additional trail Gibbs schools and Holston River greenway. !| Blueway Access Location head to the mountain. !| Blueway Rest Stop Cemex Greenway—This link should be made Love Creek Natural Area—Acquire 10-20 acres for a between Love Creek and Holston River Greenways. Other Information passive park and open space to protect water quality. Æc Libraries Greenway Connectors—Emory Road, Maloneyville Luttrell Lane Community Park—Acquire acreage Streams Road, Millertown Pike, Rutledge Pike and Tazewell associated with the flood prone sinkhole area and Pike are the most significant roads that should be City of Knoxville Boundary conserve them as open space and multi- purpose improved to safely accommodate pedestrians and Planning Sector Boundary fields, leading to the Murphy Creek greenway. bicyclists.
53 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Northwest County Sector Harrell Road Community Park—Acquire land With over 75,000 residents, this sector has the along Beaver Creek to support multiuse fields and Park and Greenway Proposals largest population in the unincorporated area. The play spaces along the proposed greenway. This Proposed Parks: General Vicinity Neighborhood Park greatest needs are to make greenway connections area is ideal for such a park because of the broad Community Park and development of close-to-home parks that can floodplain and good road access. District/Regional Park be reached by walking or biking. Melton Hill Community Center Expansion— District Recreation Center
Recommendations: Park Acquisition Consider a partnership with the owners of this Proposed Parks: Specific Location quasi-public facility to expand the grounds and Neighborhood parks—Acquire space for new Neighborhood Park offer long-term park use. neighborhood parks in the general vicinity indicated Community Park on the plan map: Conner Creek, Cate Road, Yount District / Regional Park Plumb Creek Community Park—This former Road, Emory Road Neighborhood, Yarnell Road, KUB-owned property (approximately 32 acres) Proposed Greenways and Blueways Beaver Valley, Lobetti Road and West Bridge. should be developed as a community park, Greenway providing multiuse fields and playgrounds, natural Greenway Connector Harper Cave Commons—This 55 acre space could area conservation and a multipurpose trail. Ridge Conservation Corridor be used to create multiuse fields. This site was once !| Blueway Access Location a superfund site that has been restored for reuse. A Three R’s Park (the suggested name referring master plan should be created that includes partial Existing Park Facilities environmental principles: reduce, reuse and use of the site for potential housing, which also Community and District/Regional Parks recycle)—This former landfill should be reclaimed addresses, if necessary, a final environmental review. Neighborhood Park as a recreation resource. It has been partially Open Space / Natural Area restored, that is, “cleaned and capped” so it could Dead Horse Lake Park—This land is currently Private/Quasi-public Parks be safe for park uses. One possibility would be for a used for a golf course but development patterns Golf Courses northwest county skate park. suggest that this area could be redeveloped for a n School Parks kj mix of uses. If so, space should be set aside for a Public Recreation Center Northwest District Recreation Center—Develop kj greenway trail and neighborhood park space. Quasi-public Recreation Centers a recreation center and park, providing both Greenways indoor and outdoor recreation. Locate along an !| Blueway Access Location Hardin Valley Community Park—Acquire land arterial such as Middlebrook Pike or the Schaad !| Blueway Rest Stop between the elementary and high schools to protect Road extension and program to serve a population the creek and create a portion of the Conner Creek Other Information upwards of 30,000. greenway. It should be connected to the schools’ Æc Libraries recreational facilities. Shared parking with the Streams schools should be programmed. City of Knoxville Boundary Planning Sector Boundary
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55 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Recommendations: Greenways and Blount County and the state to create a regional Greenway Connectors separated greenway trail, linking the communities and their greenway systems and the schools and Beaver Creek Greenway—This downstream employment centers near the route. portion of the greenway could contain a very beautiful corridor where the creek begins to fall and Plumb Creek Greenway—Develop a trail flow more rapidly through the forested hills to the connection between Ball Camp Elementary School, lake. The trail should connect to the various schools Nicholas Ball Park and Plumb Creek (KUB) Park. and parks in Karns. Continue westward to join neighborhoods to the parks. Conner Creek Greenway—Work with Pellissippi State and Knox County schools to provide a The trail at Covered Bridge should be a model for Connor Creek. Turkey Creek Greenway North—This segment greenway, connecting the developing neighborhoods of the proposed greenway would connect to the to the schools and parks of Hardin Valley. Pellissippi Greenway, U.S. Cellular Soccer Complex and the existing Parkside Greenway. Highway (all within the County’s Planned Growth Grassy Creek Greenway—This greenway trail Area) are the most significant roads that should be would connect the proposed Beaver Creek Greenway Greenway Connectors—Hardin Valley Road, improved to safely accommodate both pedestrians to Amherst Elementary alongside the creek. Lovell Road, Middlebrook Pike and Oak Ridge and bicyclists.
Hickory Creek Greenway—Acquire land and easements to create a trail, connecting existing and New parks should be designed for multiple purposes, like this one with its moveable soccer goals. future neighborhoods to the proposed Pellissippi Greenway.
I-475 Greenway—If this state route is developed a separated greenway trail should be provided at the time of construction as an alternative transportation and recreation route.
Melton Hill Greenway—This greenway would connect to the proposed Beaver Creek and Conner Creek Greenways and would provide a trail along the lake through Melton Hill Park.
Pellissippi Parkway/I-140 Greenway—Continue to develop this greenway, working with Oak Ridge,
56 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
South County Sector Recreation Department; consider purchasing this Baptist which owns approximately 70 acres adjacent With approximately 23,000 residents, this sector space and increasing the number of uses or acquire to the park on the east side for shared parking and is among the least populated. Its beautiful rivers, an alternative site to provide recreation when the outdoor facility use. creeks, ridges and mountains offer a setting for lease expires. conservation and limited recreation. A potential Kimberlin Heights Park Expansion—Acquire an concern may be an immediate need for a community Casteel Branch Park—Acquire and add 10-20 additional 10-20 acres; consider a connection to park, should the lease at Bower Field be terminated. acres to create a community serving park provide Gap Creek Elementary School and master plan the multi-use fields, picnic and playground facilities space with area residents. Recommendations: Park Acquisition Government Farm—Develop a cooperative Little River Park—Work with TVA to convert this Neighborhood parks—Acquire space for new agreement to allow a loop trail at the edge of existing RV campground to a community-serving neighborhood parks (5 to 10 acres each) in the the farm and create outreach programs for park, which includes fishing and river access, a general vicinity indicated on the plan map: East environmental education. walking trail and playground. Stock Creek Park, Ford Lane Park, Twin Creek Park and Colonial Village Park. I.C. King Park Expansion—Acquire land and New Hopewell School/Park Expansion—Add 10- an alterative access off of Maryville Pike; create a 20 acres to create a community-serving park with Bower Field Acquisition/Replacement—Currently master plan including play fields, playground and multi-use fields and expand the outdoor classroom these fields are under lease to the County Parks and trails. Consider a partnership with Sevier Heights and arboretum.
South Doyle High School and Park Expansion— Acquire 20 acres, particularly in the broad floodplain, to create a community-serving park; provide walking trail connections, multi-use fields and playground space.
Left: Building a pedestrian bridge across the French Broad River at Seven Islands will provide a tremendous recreation asset to South Knox Countians.
57 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Recommendations: Greenways and proposed Knox Blount Greenway to the proposed Greenway Connectors Smokey Mountain Railway Greenway. Greenway Park and Greenway Proposals connectors along such roads as Tipton Station can Proposed Parks: General Vicinity Burnett Creek Greenway—Provide a greenway be part of this system Neighborhood Park along this creek to connect to the proposed French Community Park Broad Greenway and Bower Field while protecting District/Regional Park Greenway Connectors—Chapman Highway, John this natural resource. District Recreation Center Sevier Highway, Martin Mill Pike, McCammon Road and Tipton Station Road (all within the French Broad River Greenway—Provide a trail that Proposed Parks: Specific Location County’s Planned Growth Area) are the most could be used for walking or horseback riding from Neighborhood Park significant roads that should be improved to safely the county line to the Forks of the River Wildlife Community Park accommodate both pedestrians and bicyclists. Management Area. Sidepaths along such roads as District / Regional Park Hopewell Road could be part of this system. Recommendation: Recreation Center Proposed Greenways and Blueways Greenway Hines Creek Greenway South District Recreation Center—Provide a —Use the floodway to Greenway Connector provide a trail connecting the proposed French recreation center including indoor and outdoor Ridge Conservation Corridor Broad Greenway south to Bower Field. activities to serve a population range of 20,000 to !| Blueway Access Location 40,000. Recommend locating this facility along Knox Blount Greenway—Continue collaborative major arterials for easy access. Existing Park Facilities efforts (involving Knoxville, Alcoa, Knox and Blount Community and District/Regional Parks Counties, the University of Tennessee, the state and Neighborhood Park federal governments) to provide a greenway trail Open Space / Natural Area along the river and parallel to Alcoa Highway. Private/Quasi-public Parks Golf Courses Knob Creek Greenway—Provide a link to the n School Parks kj Knox Blount Greenway, near Brown Mountain. Public Recreation Center kj Quasi-public Recreation Centers Greenways Smoky Mountain Railroad Greenway—Use this !| Blueway Access Location former railroad bed to provide a trail from the !| Blueway Rest Stop South Waterfront, connecting multiple park and recreation resources, to Sevier County. Other Information Æc Libraries Stock Creek Greenway—Acquire land and Streams easements to create a trail within the floodway With population growth or through the loss of the privately owned City of Knoxville Boundary Bower Field, another community park or sports complex will be of this creek to provide a connection from the needed for such activities as football, soccer and baseball. Planning Sector Boundary
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59 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Southwest County Sector Recommendations: Greenways and Some of the county’s best park resources are in Greenway Connections Park and Greenway Proposals this rapidly growing area. These include Concord Proposed Parks: General Vicinity Concord Greenway and greenway connector— and Carl Cowan Park. The Town of Farragut also Neighborhood Park Work with Loudon County and the Town of manages several attractive parks. The greatest needs Community Park Farragut to provide a greenway system running are connections in the greenway trail system and the District/Regional Park from the west county line through Concord Park to creation of neighborhood parks. District Recreation Center the proposed Pellissippi/I-140 Greenway. Recommendations: Park Acquisition Proposed Parks: Specific Location Keller Bend Greenway—Connect the natural areas Neighborhood Park with a trail that runs through an open space system Neighborhood parks—Acquire space for new Community Park or near Keller Bend Road. neighborhood parks (5 to 10 acres each) in the District / Regional Park general vicinity indicated on the plan map: Fox Canton Park, George Williams Park and Nubbin Pellissippi/Interstate 140 Greenway—Create a Proposed Greenways and Blueways Ridge Park. connection to the regional trail network, including Greenway those of Blount County. Greenway Connector Northshore Town Center Parks and Greenway— Ridge Conservation Corridor Ten Mile Creek Greenway Extension—Continue Parks are required by Town Center zoning and, !| Blueway Access Location along with the buffer greenway trail system, are the existing greenway from the interstate south to identified in the master plan; local government West Valley Middle School. Existing Park Facilities should consider an agreement to accept and manage Community and District/Regional Parks these spaces. Turkey Creek Greenway—Use the floodway Neighborhood Park to provide a trail from the existing Parkside Open Space / Natural Area Greenway to Concord Park protecting the natural Tooles Bend Park—Acquire 10-20 acres for a Private/Quasi-public Parks environment. community park. Consider a trail link to Badgett Golf Courses Road #1 Park. n School Parks Greenway Connectors—Northshore Drive, kj Public Recreation Center West Valley Middle School/Park Expansion— Westland Drive, Bluegrass Road, Canton Hollow kj Quasi-public Recreation Centers Road and Nubbin Ridge Road are the most Acquire 10 to 20 acres to create a community park Greenways significant roads that should be improved to safely while protecting the floodplain, cave and creek as !| Blueway Access Location environmental resources. Amenities could include accommodate both pedestrians and bicyclists. !| Blueway Rest Stop playfields, courts and trails. Additional greenways are being provided by the Other Information Town of Farragut. Æc Libraries Streams City of Knoxville Boundary Planning Sector Boundary
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61 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
62 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009 VIII. Implementation Strategies
The Parks, Recreation and Greenways Plan is • Conduct follow-up public opinion surveys to intended to be a “living document” that is, reflective track local trends and attitudes. of current recreation preferences, conditions, and needs. To remain so: Strategies • Update the individual sector park maps In addition to conventional capital improvement periodically, with every subsequent Sector Plan appropriations and state and federal grants (through adoption, to reflect additions to the park system park, natural resource, transportation and community and to reassess goals for each individual sector. development agencies), the following strategies should • Monitor key demographic indicators such as be pursued in implementing this plan. age and population growth trends to enable more accurate projections of future needs. Non-profit and private funding • Preserve areas of natural significance through greenways, blueways, and park land along Legacy Parks Foundation rivers, creeks, and hillsides, particularly in Legacy Parks Foundation is a public, tax-exempt establishing district/regional parks. organization founded in 2005 and it is a supporting • Seek joint use easements for trail systems within foundation of the East Tennessee Foundation. The existing and proposed drainage, utility and Foundation is operated by an independent Board of freeway corridors. Directors and serves Knoxville and Knox County. • Conduct studies of potential sites for Its mission is: “To enrich our quality of life by comprehensive recreation centers (distributed improving, preserving and growing parks, recreation throughout the county) including potential and green space.” Financial support for the program components and costs. comes from grants, private donations, corporate • Work with various special interest groups to contributions, gifts of property, and bequests. assess needs and opportunities to accommodate Coordination with the Foundation is a necessity in those interests (equestrians, skate borders, inline creating the future park system. skaters, rugby clubs, tennis clubs, golf clubs, soccer clubs, etc.) Corporate sponsors/naming rights • Implement “green” practices – replacing A potential funding source is to work with standard light bulbs with LED, provide for corporations and businesses that would like to recycling, use recycled materials (for example, provide land, materials, and other resources for the rubber mulch), etc. development of new park, recreation and greenway Legacy Parks Foundation had led the effort to create the urban wilderness system.
63 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009 facilities or the renovation of such facilities. An Partner with the Knoxville Tourism and Sports Voluntary Program Expansion incentive could be the opportunity to include Corporation and the Knoxville Chamber of recognition of donations through signs or naming Commerce Adopt-A-Park Program the resource after a corporate sponsor (for example: Utilize the marketing skills of the Tourism Increase the number of volunteers and continue U.S. Cellular Soccer Fields). Corporation and the Chamber to promote to develop programs for natural trail construction, tournaments, classes, and special events provided such as involvement in mountain bike and scouting Public-private partnerships through the parks and recreation departments. interests.
Concurrent land acquisition for development Partner with the Knox County School System and parks Provide a mutually beneficial relationship in Because of the quickly urbanizing status of Knoxville which the schools could provide land open to the and Knox County, it is important for both entities community for recreation purposes and the parks to be proactive in obtaining park and recreation land and recreation departments could provide amenities, resources. This provides flexibility in responding to equipment and share maintenance costs. Program changing circumstances in the future. As “build- activities on school grounds and facilities for summer, out” approaches, there will not be land available weekend, and after school uses year round. at affordable cost to meet additional park needs and desires. Additionally, local government should Combine dedication programs with capital look first to public land, then private land, except budgets Mountain bike interests have been very active in assisting the parks where location criteria dictate otherwise. It will be Create a matching funds pool as part of the capital departments. Other interests should also be sought in creating new important to establish incentives for developers budget each year where public funds can be used to trails. to set aside open space at the time of subdivision leverage private dollars, grants, and donations. especially as the rate of land subdivision increases. Neighborhood Pick Up Public dedications and recognition following Help to defer maintenance costs by working with development neighborhood associations and coordinating It is important to publicize the positive trash pick up and general park maintenance. This achievements of the parks and recreation program can help to increase a sense of ownership departments and to provide recognition for new for the facility. facilities and partnerships. The parks departments in conjunction with the Legacy Parks Foundation should continue to recognize park achievements with activities such as ribbon cuttings, press releases, This plan calls for reuse of former school grounds. Rule High School and the annual Mayors’ Luncheon for the Parks. fields have sat idle for a decade. Their reuse as a park would be a community asset.
64 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Creating equitable acquisition Additionally, Section 82-22 Design Innovation states: programs. Most subdivisions that are created in systems Knox County are relatively small so dedication of “The developments allowable under this provision land within the smaller tract may not make sense are those which might call for smaller lot sizes than Adopt a level-of-service methodology for parks in creating an overall park system. Other cities and usual, and which might call for the preservation of and recreation program planning. counties, facing similar situations, use fees-in-lieu land for recreational, scenic, historical, and/or park of dedication as a means to procure larger park A level-of-service approach provides a strong, purposes…in such a manner as to yield wholesome sites in the general area of smaller subdivisions. legally defensible basis for dedication requirements living environments for future occupants.” and other fees. It also brings consistency These programs should be further considered in combination with incentives (for example, a density to the assessment of needs and tracking of In order to be more proactive in allowing smaller bonus) and the other implementation measures that accomplishments over a long period of time. lots and, in turn, providing park land and open are identified in this section. space, a change to the subdivision regulations to Subdivision regulations include provisions for open space/conservation Special assessment districts and Section 6-68 of the Minimum Subdivision subdivisions is recommended. Such an addition can initiatives Regulations for Knox County states: have more specific standards for lot size and more narrow road widths that can reduce the need for “Public Open Spaces – For the purpose of providing Real estate transfer tax for adequate public land, the Planning Commission variances, which are “stumbling blocks” in using the Work with state officials to direct a portion of the may require the dedication or reservation of usable previously mentioned subdivision clause. real estate transfer tax that is raised in Knox County open space within a subdivision up to a total of ten to the acquisition of greenways and natural areas (10) percent of the gross area or water frontage of the Other changes to the subdivision procedures that identified in this plan. subdivision for park, school or recreation purposes.” should be considered are dedication and fees-in-lieu Enable voters to consider park funding Provide opportunities through ballot measures or referenda that allow the public the opportunity to decide on creating new parks, recreation centers, greenways and/or publicly held open spaces. This should include bond issues and, potentially, the right for certain communities to establish their own park districts.
A sales tax option is another consideration whereby a small portion of the sales tax is used for park and open space purchases. In Boulder, Colorado, for
In this illustration of a conservation subdivision, smaller, clustered lots are used to create a wooded trail corridor and a neighborhood park. example, voters approved a local sales tax allocation
65 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009 of 0.4 percent in 1967 under which $116 million has should be capitalized upon. Consider merging the Economic consultation for acquisition, revenue been collected to establish 33,000 acres of greenways city and county golf programs under collective sources and maintenance options and foothill/mountain parks. management. The long term viability of the parks, recreation and greenways system will be dependent on the ability of Additional tax revenues toward acquisition or Concepts for a City Park, Greenway and the departments to meet the needs of its current users development programs Recreation Board and to provide for the projected users in the future. Mayor Victor Ashe established a tax-generated fund Like Knox County, the city should create a citizen- It will be critical to purchase and maintain facilities for park acquisition and improvements, called a based park, greenway and recreation board. Such where population density dictates. Additionally, “Penny for Parks.” A sizable portion of the city’s park a board would serve in an advisory capacity to the since the departments are showing a deficiency in the budget is derived from this fund. The county should City’s Park and Recreation Department, Mayor and total land acreage, it will be important to assess the consider a similar program, particularly for park City Council on capital improvements, including possibility of new facilities and their long term costs. acquisition purposes in solving the close-to-home park and greenway development programs, design park deficiencies. of parks via a site plan review process, operational Retirement Program: Old Parks and Schools policies and funding. A similar ordinance to For facilities that have been historically under-utilized Economics of administration and that which created the Tree Board would be or are in major disrepair, it would be of benefit management appropriate, whereby a broad spectrum of citizens for the departments to have an adopted policy and professionals, such as landscape architects, are for relinquishing properties that pose a significant Sports Tournament Promotion appointed to the board. liability. Once the property is liquidated, the funds It has been noted in several comparable cities and should be used to acquire more land in areas that counties that being a tournament destination for are deficient and are projected to have an increase in sports and recreation increases overall revenues. population and users. Occasionally, schools are made Establish Knoxville-Knox County as a place for surplus property. The grounds of the schools are often a variety of sports tournaments including soccer, a prime park asset to a neighborhood. The city and baseball, football and skateboarding. The concept of county should be allowed to consider the reuse of tournaments was supported in the public meetings school properties for park purposes. and surveys, especially by families with soccer participants. Also, if Knoxville-Knox County can host Revenue Sharing Plan tournaments it will be critical to track the economic Develop a revenue sharing plan or dedicated funding impact each year through surveys of participants, mechanism enabling the parks and recreation surveys of merchants and tracking tax receipts. departments to directly benefit from revenue brought in by tournaments which will in turn help fund “Metro Golf” improvements to tournament facilities, and all parks. The management of metropolitan golfing provides positive net income to the parks departments and Greenways should be created on old railroad beds, like this one along Second Creek.
66 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009 APPENDIX A: Summary of Public Participation
Summary of Public Meetings • Create open space parks with more natural • Put as much money in parks as industrial areas areas • More focus on alternate types of transportation • Comprehensively connect greenways across the • Preservation of forests, river bluffs, creeks, and • Create more dog parks and continue to provide county, especially to downtown; develop new springs, include unpaved trails along ridges; dog pick up bags greenways and sidewalks (consider powerline plant and maintain native species; ecosystem • Combine city and county parks and recreation right-of-ways for greenways and rails to trails restoration departments projects) • Practice stream and creek restorations • Provide interpretive information at parks • Develop trail systems within parks for walking • Recycle centers and containers within parks, • Develop alliance with UT Agriculture and and exercise more trash cans in busy areas others • Develop more mountain bike trails and dirt • More ADA accessibility within parks and • Create touchable water warnings for public bike facilities activities geared towards the disabled, more knowledge of water conditions • Consider lighting greenways parks with accessible equipment for children; • More community centers, including the • Provide more bathrooms and drinking fountains recommend that all facilities should be ADA Norwood Neighborhood • Provide more splash pads and indoor pools accessible • Restore parks like Linden Park • Build more lighted athletic fields; consider • Increase senior citizens activities within parks • Recommend adding 8-10 fields for soccer in soccer and baseball complexes throughout the • Develop the skate park and include other West Knox County county locations • Create an observation tower at Ft. Dickerson • Create an indoor sports complex • Create more T-ball fields with a winding trail to waterfront • Create a Multi-use Sports Park • Increase security in parks (Crime Prevention • Blueway access and parks along the Holston • Consider giant parks and recreation centers through Environmental Design), including River. (2-4 scattered throughout the county) with KPD presence in parks activities for all age • Provide on-line data base for access to • Open gyms for all ages information; promote the parks • Update playgrounds – consider lighting; update • Create “Friends of the Park” groups; develop passive parks (more green spaces) partnerships to increase funding opportunities • Create more recreation centers with tennis and community involvement courts, aerobics, fitness centers, and loops with • Consider partnerships for purchasing fields trail connections • Have developers set aside lands for park space • Provide more meeting spaces • Create consistent directional signage to parks • Acquire more land and key locations for open • Increase funding for the maintenance of parks, space and recreation; increase acreage of the have better maintenance of existing facilities park system
67 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Summary of 10th Grade High School Survey
1. Overall, how satisfied are you with the parks and recreational facilities in your Walking, jogging, fitness trails: community? ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times ¡ Not Satisfied ¡ Somewhat Satisfied ¡ Very Satisfied ¡ Not Sure 72 114 59 40 22 150 57 55 Boating (including canoeing/kayaking) or fishing: ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times 2. Overall, how satisfied are you with the recreational programs in your community? 96 80 50 72 ¡ Not Satisfied ¡ Somewhat Satisfied ¡ Very Satisfied ¡ Not Sure 24 140 33 88 Outdoor Basketball courts: ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times 3. Overall, how satisfied are you with the greenway trails (for walking, jogging, biking, 84 95 60 46 rollerblading) in your community? Soccer fields: ¡ Not Satisfied ¡ Somewhat Satisfied ¡ Very Satisfied ¡ Not Sure ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times 42 107 68 68 183 58 27 17 4. Thinking generally about all public and private parks, recreational facilities, and Football fields: greenways how often did you use the following types of facilities inside or outside of ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times Knox County within the last year? 128 73 44 36 Tennis courts: ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times Nature areas: 166 82 24 13 ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times 107 99 45 23 Swimming pools: ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times Picnic areas: 72 87 65 46 ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times 67 141 57 19 Golf courses: ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times 204 56 20 5 5. If Knoxville and Knox County were to develop more recreation facilities (see the previous list from Question 4), which do you feel are most needed? Indoor recreation/fitness centers: ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times swimming pools, walking trails, football fields, basketball courts 67 89 72 48
Softball or baseball fields: ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times 121 94 37 33 6. Are there other facilities which are not listed that you feel should be provided (for example: skate parks, indoor pools, etc.)? Bicycle trails: ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times skateparks, indoor pools, frisbee golf courses, paintball fields, climbing walls 144 84 37 20
68 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
7. How often during the last year did you use each of the following? 10. Please rank the following benefits that parks and recreational facilities provide to the Parks, recreation facilities or greenways in your community: community with 1 being the most important and 4 being the least important. ¡ ¡ ¡ ¡ Never 1-5 times 6-20 times 20+ times ¡ Community Pride ¡ Economic Growth/Tourism ¡ Environmental Protection ¡ Personal health 44 113 84 45 61 40 77 145 School recreational facilities (not counting High School team sports): ¡ ¡ ¡ ¡ Never 1-5 times 6-20 times 20+ times 11. Generally speaking, how do the Knoxville/Knox County parks, recreational facilities, 103 108 46 28 and greenways compare with other parks, recreational facilities, and greenways you have Church recreational facilities: used? ¡ ¡ ¡ ¡ ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times Better than average Average Worse than average No Opinion 97 102 50 37 9 158 43 67 Residential subdivision parks or recreational facilities (including pools): 12. The following characteristics may or may not describe the parks in your neighborhood or ¡ ¡ ¡ ¡ Never 1-5 times 6-20 times 20+ times community. Please rate the characteristics of the parks near your home using a scale of 1 to 5 76 113 49 45 (with 1 being poor and 5 being excellent). Private sports clubs (like tennis or fitness centers): ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times Has a pleasant, attractive environment 128 82 32 44 ¡ 1 ¡ 2 ¡ 3 ¡ 4 ¡ 5 15 41 115 78 27 8. Do you think there should be more or fewer parks in your area, or is the current level Is conveniently located near my home about right? ¡ 1 ¡ 2 ¡ 3 ¡ 4 ¡ 5 ¡ ¡ ¡ ¡ Fewer Parks About Right More Parks Not Sure 58 73 73 34 38 2 46 197 34 9. Do any of the following factors prevent you from using the park and recreational Is well maintained ¡ ¡ ¡ ¡ ¡ facilities as much as you would like? 1 2 3 4 5 25 58 102 71 18 ¡ ¡ ¡ Lack of free time: Yes No Not Sure Has a wide variety of things to do 175 89 31 ¡ 1 ¡ 2 ¡ 3 ¡ 4 ¡ 5 Concern for personal safety: ¡ Yes ¡ No ¡ Not Sure 49 85 78 49 15 38 226 19 Overcrowding of facilities: ¡ Yes ¡ No ¡ Not Sure Enhances my quality of life 116 150 36 ¡ 1 ¡ 2 ¡ 3 ¡ 4 ¡ 5 Cost of programs: ¡ Yes ¡ No ¡ Not Sure 51 54 96 49 25 93 162 41 Inconvenient location of facilities: ¡ Yes ¡ No ¡ Not Sure 13. Gender: 153 108 37 ¡ Female ¡ Male Lack of sidewalks or trail connections: ¡ Yes ¡ No ¡ Not Sure 134 151 107 154 25 Physical disability: ¡ Yes ¡ No ¡ Not Sure 7 264 14 Desired activities not offered: ¡ Yes ¡ No ¡ Not Sure 127 129 29 Condition of facilities: ¡ Yes ¡ No ¡ Not Sure 101 149 55 69 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Summary of On-Line Surveys
1. Overall, how satisfied are you with the parks and recreational facilities in your Walking, jogging, fitness trails: community? ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times ¡ Not Satisfied ¡ Somewhat Satisfied ¡ Very Satisfied ¡ Not Sure 61 132 150 248 129 382 116 8 Boating (including canoeing/kayaking) or fishing: ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times 2. Overall, how satisfied are you with the recreational programs in your community? 272 157 80 69 ¡ Not Satisfied ¡ Somewhat Satisfied ¡ Very Satisfied ¡ Not Sure 122 324 84 103 Outdoor Basketball courts: ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times 3. Overall, how satisfied are you with the greenway trails (for walking, jogging, biking, 409 119 38 17 rollerblading) in your community? Soccer fields: ¡ Not Satisfied ¡ Somewhat Satisfied ¡ Very Satisfied ¡ Not Sure ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times 171 276 160 26 352 78 48 110 4. Thinking generally about all public and private parks, recreational facilities, and Football fields: greenways how often did you use the following types of facilities inside or outside of ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times Knox County within the last year? 416 67 41 54 Tennis courts: ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times Nature areas: 394 132 42 22 ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times 79 184 174 157 Swimming pools: ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times Picnic areas: 321 150 74 42 ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times 120 286 130 54 Golf courses: ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times Other: 391 108 55 28 ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times 138 75 37 82 Indoor recreation/fitness centers: ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times 309 114 61 101 5. If Knoxville and Knox County were to develop more recreation facilities (see the previous list from Question 4), which do you feel are most needed? Softball or baseball fields: ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times greenways, natural areas 363 102 53 65 6. Are there other facilities which are not listed that you feel should be provided (for Bicycle trails: example: skate parks, indoor pools, etc.)? ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times 160 138 108 181
70 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
7. How often during the last year did you use each of the following? 10. Please rank the following benefits that parks and recreational facilities provide to the Parks, recreation facilities or greenways in your community: community with 1 being the most important and 4 being the least important. ¡ ¡ ¡ ¡ Never 1-5 times 6-20 times 20+ times 1 2 3 4 25 108 143 322 Community Pride 111 134 159 111 School recreational facilities (not counting High School team sports): Economic Growth/Tourism 57 106 132 239 ¡ ¡ ¡ ¡ Environmental Protection 93 202 142 99 Never 1-5 times 6-20 times 20+ times 256 169 85 71 Personal health 307 111 90 57 Church recreational facilities: 11. Generally speaking, how do the Knoxville/Knox County parks, recreational facilities, ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times 286 155 71 55 and greenways compare with other parks, recreational facilities, and greenways you have used? Residential subdivision parks or recreational facilities (including pools): ¡ Better than average ¡ Average ¡ Worse than average ¡ No Opinion ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times 63 293 189 39 244 162 88 91 Private sports clubs (like tennis or fitness centers): 12. The following characteristics may or may not describe the parks in your neighborhood or ¡ Never ¡ 1-5 times ¡ 6-20 times ¡ 20+ times community. Please rate the characteristics of the parks near your home using a scale of 1 to 5 254 73 72 182 (with 1 being poor and 5 being excellent).
8. Do you think there should be more or fewer parks in your area, or is the current Has a pleasant, attractive environment level about right? ¡ 1 ¡ 2 ¡ 3 ¡ 4 ¡ 5 ¡ Fewer Parks ¡ About Right ¡ More Parks ¡ Not Sure 74 85 163 183 73 3 103 478 14 Is conveniently located near my home 9. Do any of the following factors prevent you from using the park and recreational ¡ 1 ¡ 2 ¡ 3 ¡ 4 ¡ 5 facilities as much as you would like? 95 107 114 142 123
Lack of free time: ¡ Yes ¡ No ¡ Not Sure Is well maintained 314 246 17 ¡ 1 ¡ 2 ¡ 3 ¡ 4 ¡ 5 58 108 182 172 54 Concern for personal safety: ¡ Yes ¡ No ¡ Not Sure 188 358 30 Has a wide variety of things to do Overcrowding of facilities: ¡ Yes ¡ No ¡ Not Sure ¡ 1 ¡ 2 ¡ 3 ¡ 4 ¡ 5 210 345 23 91 144 197 104 41 Cost of programs: ¡ Yes ¡ No ¡ Not Sure 64 463 43 Enhances my quality of life Inconvenient location of facilities: ¡ Yes ¡ No ¡ Not Sure ¡ 1 ¡ 2 ¡ 3 ¡ 4 ¡ 5 310 235 28 74 96 132 160 114 Lack of sidewalks or trail connections: ¡ Yes ¡ No ¡ Not Sure 395 170 14 13. Gender: ¡ Female ¡ Male 280 289 Physical disability: ¡ Yes ¡ No ¡ Not Sure 15 539 18 Desired activities not offered: ¡ Yes ¡ No ¡ Not Sure 247 292 39 Condition of facilities: ¡ Yes ¡ No ¡ Not Sure 212 322 42 71
The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Appendix B: Urban Growth Boundary Map
E IK P L E L IK E P D N Legend N W R TO E Y O R Z O G R EM IN A R E H T S I S A W F Growth Boundaries R W
Y E BOOHER IK Urban Growth Boundary D RD P R R E D Y M G Y R C D E O E G E L NO M K I L L R E I N T A E P N Farragut Urban Growth Boundary R I U V IS L S R L E N F E R O R K D O W W I E P C Y Z C N Planned Growth Area A A M E T EM D O I O R B N RY W T ER R U E E D E G I K V R E GE IN IK I R K ID H P P D R H S N E Rural Area H A A W E W G I O D R T S D R E K R T E L ASCOT R E P L T M D R L L D A I U G D L R N M R Y W R R O Y D O R Incorporated Areas M B W E D H E R N T Y E F T A O O A IK S N W 75 U Y P IKE N N M D L E P H City of Knoxville T A L DG O A E E E J O PIK L IN W N T R W W D C E TO U R B Z ER R E E IT A ILL R T Y N T M D R Town of Farragut N R N D A A S
L D D C E A L R C E Y T LI R LN A G HWY E N W W ILLE R T D R O HEV O O N A D AS S N P A D E V C H A K H
H E I E W A C O P O L R Y R Y L N W O A B H N D R TO E L R C D D L O T L B N G IL R Y N IN V R D R A O H E H O TON H H U IN W H S S J E M CL Y C R A E R A O K C O I W E W K M H P A L N S D E D N 40 IN E IK S B R N W C A P D C H E L E E E A P R V A 640 N E V PL Y R O A E Y R M A T R I R R H SA R E Y R Y G I C N B D O S T A S OYDS B R BE N A R L RIDG S K I S T E PIK AW R W D E H R P O R WE G T ST H A I S E W R T D TE Y G R R I E N D Y N R Y A R G H K RIDGE HW VE W D W OA D E S Y S
E T D E 275 R
R S R D N RO D RD A U G VE AK A D AV RN PIK KOD H O O C R E AS TH E S T H S E BU ER S AV RY H D R R M D N D D A E LA ER D E B N IK UM A N P C L TO Y W S E DDLE D G N MI BROO E K P R IN IKE S K S E T L N W RD O S A O HT D R IG M O E S T H D D O H E N O I D R K L R R S R I R Y DUTCH N E E L TOWN R H D P L RD A B L L E O E HAPM M A V C A I E L R L N V R K R L D L H IN V D D I D D N AN E V W L R O R O R L E R D S ST D Y Y P
L A E A E D W R HA H K GL R C C A N O M O D R R PIKE D U TON N M S WY E NG IER H H C KI SEV E HA R E R HN P E D B JO M SID D OR AN RK E E RN H PA N R OVE W
E O E G Y
Z H W K R E S I D R H P T D R N R E D A L L O T L S N I E E V K S I W Y P C N R O O N T A S N W G M M A IN C A T K O R T T R R IN D D M R 140 IL D L P M IK C R E F D E E E R O R H D S H T
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The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009 Appendix C: Park Land Acquisition Recommendations for the Next 15 years
While the overall plan is conceived as a long-range conserving its natural assets and transferring to • Vestal Plaza: Create the plaza as part of (30 year) vision of the future park system, certain the City’s Park and Recreation Department for building redevelopment and connect via a priorities can be identified to meet existing and management. greenway to Mary Vestal Park. anticipated needs. The following recommendations, • Williams Creek Parks: Establish a park or which are outlined by planning sector, are based square at Harrison Street; and develop a linear West City on several factors: existing deficiencies in relation park connection to the botanical gardens. • “Branch Park”: Acquire neighborhood park to park standards, growth that can be expected in • Chilhowee Park (south of Magnolia Avenue): space at the confluence of the creeks and relation to designated urban and suburban areas, Develop a master plan for a multi-use park, connect to Fourth Creek Greenway. and conservation of natural areas. which would be opened on a daily basis.
Central City North City • Rule High School: Reclaim/reuse the old Rule • Franklin Square: Work with the Disabled High School fields for community recreation American Veteran’s Association to establish this purposes. park and connect to the Fountain City Lake via • Oakwood Elementary School: Establish a park the stream valley. on the former school grounds (taking into • Neighborhood Parks: Acquire five to 10 acres in account environmental factors). the vicinity of the confluence of Murphy Creek • Kelso Park: Investigate, particularly from and White’s Creek, Rowan Road and Dante environmental standpoints, the potential reuse Road (along the proposed greenway) for park of the Kelso Oil site for park use; and consider development. residential development in conjunction with the park. Northwest City • Neighborhood Parks: Acquire 5 to 10 acres in A vision for the South Waterfront park system. East City the vicinity of Oak Road and Murray Drive. • East Burlington Neighborhood Park: Acquire approximately 5 acres for a park. South City • Burlington Square: Create a plaza or park as • South Waterfront Parks: Acquire the space for part of revitalization of the Burlington mixed parks and a greenway, including River Plain Park. use/commercial area. • Urban Wilderness and Historic Trail system: • Prosser Road Community Park: Develop a Continue to establish this open space system master plan for the public land at this location, and develop a trail.
75 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
East County Northwest County South County • Sunnyview Elementary School: Acquire 5 to 10 • Hardin Valley Community Park: Acquire • Stock Creek Parks: Acquire the Casteel Branch adjacent acres to create a school-park. land for a 20 to 40 acre park, preferably along site and portions of the floodplain at South • Midway Park: Set aside 20 to 30 acres for a Conner Creek, with greenway connections to Doyle High School to create two community community park and open space system. the schools. parks. • Neighborhood parks: Acquire 5 to 10 acres for • Beaver Creek Parks: Acquire park land at • New Hopewell School: Acquire 10 to 20 acres at least three new neighborhood parks between the proposed Harrell Road and Beaver Valley to expand into a community park. Strawberry Plains Pike and the Holston River. locations and concentrate on greenway connections. Southwest County North County • Harper Cave Commons: Set aside a multi- • Neighborhood parks: Acquire 5 to 10 acres in • Copper Ridge Park and Natural Area: Acquire purpose open space and improve access to this the vicinity of Canton Road, George Williams 50 to 100 acres in the Bull Run floodplain and county-owned resource; develop recreation uses Road and Nubbin Ridge. along nearby ridges. in conjunction with the neighborhood and • Tooles Bend Community Park: Acquire • Beaver Creek neighborhood parks: Continue County Community Development Department additional land near the open spaces on Tooles the acquisition of parks and connect them via interests. Bend and connect with a trail system. the greenway. • West Valley Community Park: Acquire • Neighborhood parks, north of Emory Road: additional land next to West Valley Middle Acquire at least two sites for the proposed parks School as part of the Ten Mile Creek greenway. in the sector park plan.
Northeast County • Loves Creek Natural Area: Acquire and conserve the land around the springs. • Neighborhood parks: Acquire sites for at least two parks in the Rutledge Pike/Millertown Pike area. • Luttrell Lane Park: Acquire and create a community park in the area that is subject to sinkhole flooding. • House Mountain: Acquire land for a community park at the base of the mountain.
Parts of Copper Ridge and the Bull Run Creek floodplain are a proposed natural area.
76 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009 Appendix D: An Overview of the Plan Map Preparation Process
Eight steps were used in creating the proposed park as a basis for mapping where parks are most 7. Other areas that might have a reduced cost system map. needed by current and future sector residents. or multiple benefits were also considered in identifying park sites and natural areas, 1. MPC started with the inventory and mapped 3. MPC staff used KGIS to precisely measure particularly some of the steeper ridges and the existing park system, which is now available walking and driving distances to existing parks. floodplains, which are ideal for greenway and as the definitive park and greenway map layer These are depicted on the first draft proposals park space because recreation uses have limited in the Knoxville and Knox County Geographic for the park plan as lightly colored service areas environmental impact. This is the reason why Information System (KGIS). (see the following map). many recommended parks are proposed along stream-oriented greenways, the potential “pearls 2. Working the parks departments, MPC used a 4. Additional parameters were considered future along an emerald necklace.” modification of the National Recreation and land uses that were not anticipated for Park Association (NRPA) standards to examine residential development were excluded from 8. Finally, the planning team examined: (a) the where people were being served and where recommendations. Additionally, land that is public comments regarding the 2008 draft there were gaps in service. The basic modified constrained by significant topographic changes plan, and (b) anticipated population growth. standards were: was viewed as a low priority because of the The recommendations of citizens and park required grading and potential environmental department staff were used to refine the plan. • In urban areas, neighborhood parks or impact. Then, a basic question was posed by MPC portions of larger parks that have playgrounds staff to further refine the recommendations: and other neighborhood park facilities should 5. When creating a strategy for park land were the parks that had been proposed in the be within a ¼ walk of residents; in lower acquisition, MPC staff considered “last chance draft enough to meet the needs of the current density suburban areas, the walking distance opportunities,” recognizing development population (solving existing deficiencies) and should be ½ mile. Pocket parks and tot lots pressure near substantial natural resources, like the needs of another 15,000 to 30,000 people were also considered in the analysis, using a the headwaters of Love’s Creek and the Urban in the growth-oriented sectors? Additional service area of 200 yards walking distance. Wilderness and Historic Corridor close-to-home parks were added in most sectors • In urban areas the driving distance to a to serve residents at the minimal standard (6.25 community park, sports complex or district/ 6. Because a significant cost in establishing new acres per 1,000 people) over the next 20 to 30 regional park should be no more than two parks is land acquisition, the planning team years. See the plans in Chapters VI and VII to to three miles; in suburban and rural areas, looked at existing public land, such as those of review the resulting recommended system. the driving distance should be no more than the city, county, state and federal governments. three miles. Such resources were analyzed for their potential • The NRPA suggested minimum standard of park use, taking into account their current 6.25 acres of close-to-home parks was used function and site characteristics.
77
The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009 Appendix E: Greenway Priorities
The recommended 5- and 15-year greenway Greenway Priority Matrix greenways, which will be the focus of trail priorities, outlined on the following pages, were routing alternative studies for setting aside and Five Year Program Intent created as a result of the advice of MPC staff, acquiring easements. • Create or extend trails that form the most the parks and recreation departments and their needed connections to the overall greenway Fifteen Year Program Intent Greenway Commission and Advisory Board, and system, particularly in serving as walking and the Transportation Planning Organization staff. • Establish a secondary list of trail priorities in biking routes to schools, parks and employment The major factors in making the recommendations developing urban and suburban areas. centers. included connectivity between greenways, natural • Create a secondary list of potential greenways, • Establish the priorities for grant applications resource protection, providing links to parks, school which will be a later focus of trail routing and capital improvement programs and employment centers, and equity in developing alternative studies. • Create a manageable list of potential greenways across all communities.
City-County Greenways: Recommended Improvements by Segment
10-Mile Creek Greenway Middlebrook Pike/Hardin Valley Road Connector (continued) 5 Year Program 15 Year Program • Carmike Wynnsong 16 Theater to Kingston Pike • Weisgarber to 3rd Creek (consider sidepath design) • Kingston Pike to West Valley Middle School (city and county project) • Bearden Middle to Pellissippi Community College (consider sidepath • Link to Catholic High School (county project) design) 15 Year Program • West Valley Middle School to I-140 (county project) Murphy Creek/White Creek Greenway 15 Year Program Knox/Blount (Alcoa Highway) Greenway • First Creek to Washington Pike (city and county project) 5 Year Program • Greenway Drive/Beverly Road to Ritta Elementary • Buck Karnes Bridge to county line (funded; details being worked out as of 2009) Smoky Mountain Railroad Greenway 5 Year Program Middlebrook Pike/Hardin Valley Road Connector • Mary Vestal Park to Charter E. Doyle (“cost out” crusher run surface; 5 Year Program city project) • Fourth Creek @Weisgarber to Bearden Middle School (consider as a 15 Year Program sidepath design) • Charter E. Doyle Park to Bower Field (county project)
79 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
City Greenways: Recommended Improvements by Segments Lonsdale Greenway Adair Greenway 5 Year Program 5 Year Program • Texas Avenue to Sysco (consider crusher run surfaced trail) • Adair Park to First Creek 15 Year Program Baker Creek Greenway • Sharps Ridge loop 15 Year Program Love’s Creek: Recommended Segments • Mary James Park to South Waterfront 5 Year Program First Creek Greenway • Knoxville Center Mall to Spring Place Park 5 Year Program 15 Year Program • Caswell Park to First Creek Park • Babelay/Murphy Road (coordinate with Murphy Road improvements) • Caswell Park to river • Holston Middle School to Holston Hills • “Duck Pond” to Adair Drive • Spring Place to Holston Middle School 15 Year Program Papermill Bluff Greenway • Walker Boulevard to First Creek Park 5 Year Program • Adair Drive to Walker Boulevard (coordinate with I-640 interchange improvements) • Weisgarber Road to Holman Road (funded) Fourth Creek Greenway Second Creek Greenway 5 Year Program 5 Year Program • Weisgarber Trail to Lakeshore Park (coordinate routing with Northshore/ • Upper Second Creek connection (funded) Kingston Pike improvement program) 15 Year Program • Bearden Elementary to Lakeshore • Sysco to World’s Fair Park (set aside easements with I-275 corridor Goose Creek Greenway redevelopment activities) 5 Year Program Sharps Ridge Greenway • Finish asphalt trail from Mary Vestal Park to South Waterfront 5 Year Program Hastie Park-Ijams Nature Center • Broadway to Washington Pike (consider powerline routing) 5 Year Program South Waterfront • Hastie Park to Will Skelton trail (natural surface trail in conjunction with 5 Year Program mountain bike interests) • Island Home to Scottish Pike (design and develop as per South Waterfront Holston River Greenway Vision Plan) 5 Year Program Third Creek • James White Parkway to Holston River Park (consider a crusher run surface) 5 Year Program 15 Year Program • Sutherland to Victor Ashe Park • Love’s Creek to Boyds Bridge on the east and southeast side of the river • Greenway connector from Tobler to Third Creek trail James White Greenway Urban Wilderness and Historic Corridor 5 Year Improvement Program 5 Year Program • Create connection across S. Knoxville Bridge and extend to South Doyle Middle • UT Hospital to State Wildlife Management Area (consider soft surface trail) School Williams Creek Trail and Botanical Gardens Connector 15 Year Program 5 Year Program • Moody Avenue to John Sevier (construct with James White Parkway extension) • Union Square/Five Points to Tennessee River • Botanical Garden to Williams Creek
80 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
County Greenways: Recommended Improvements by Segments McFee Road Connector 15 Year Program Beaver Creek Greenway • Farragut town limits to Northshore Drive (explore sidepath design; 5 Year Program coordinate with Town of Farragut) • Halls Community Park to the Halls Elementary, Middle and High Schools • Halls Community Park to Brickey School Northshore Drive Connector/Concord Greenway • Existing Powell Greenway to Powell Library (coordinate with Emory 5 Year Program Road extension) • Concord Road eastward through Concord Park to Carl Cowan Park (route • Northwest Sports Park to Westbridge (create with Karns connector through park then use sidepath design eastward) project) • Choto Road to Concord Road (route through park then use sidepath design 15 Year Program westward) • Halls Community Park to Gibbs schools (complete with Emory Road 15 Year Program project) • Carl Cowen Park to I-140 (explore sidepath design) • Brickey Elementary to Powell Library (consider underpass at I-75/ • I-140 to Lakeshore Park (explore sidepath design) Beaver Creek. Establish easement with airport redevelopment. Seek Pellissippi Parkway/I-140 Greenway city assistance in incorporated area) 5 Year Program • Powell Middle School to Karns Elementary School • Carmichael Road to Dutchtown area • Westbridge Business Park to Pellissippi Parkway 15 Year Program Burnett Creek Greenway • Pellissippi Community College to Oak Ridge (plan in conjunction with 15 Year Program State Route 475 or other parkway improvements) • Connect to Will Skelton trail • Dead Horse Lake to Dutchtown area Conner Creek Greenway • I-40/75 to Blount County 5 Year Program Plumb Creek Greenway • Pellissippi State to Hardin Valley schools 5 Year Program 15 Year Program • Nicholas Ball Park to Plumb Creek Park • Hardin Valley schools to Melton Hill Park 15 Year Program Flat Creek Greenway • Plumb Creek Park to Pellissippi Parkway 15 Year Program Route 475 Greenway • Eastbridge Business Park to House Mountain (examine as an equestrian 15 Year Program trail) • Anderson County thru Knox County (fund with Route 475 project) John Sevier Highway Connector Stock Creek Greenway 15 Year Program 5 Year Program • Asheville Highway to Alcoa Highway (design as a sidepath) • South Doyle High School to library Knob Creek Greenway 15 Year Program 15 Year Program • Library to Knox/Blount greenway • Charter E. Doyle to I.C. King (consider natural surface) • South Doyle High School to John Sevier Highway McAnnally Ridge Trail Turkey Creek Greenway 5 Year Program 5 Year Program • Love’s Creek to House Mountain (work with the State to connect to • Wetlands to Concord Park (city, county, and Town of Farragut coordination) House Mountain Natural Area) • I-40/75 to Pellissippi Parkway (sidepath option should be considered)
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The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009 Appendix F: Short-term Improvement Program for Existing Parks
The park inventory and survey was used to outline recreation opportunities such as picnic tables South City Sector recommendations for specific improvements. The and benches. • Cecil Webb Park: Create a master plan. following list is based on conditions of facilities and • Chilhowee Park: Create daily use activities at Consider an expanded open space system, staff evaluations to create better use of existing park this park, reopen the portion of the park south linking Dogwood Elementary and the old land and related resources. of Magnolia Avenue as a neighborhood park South Knoxville High School. with field space for active and passive recreation • Sam Duff Memorial Park: Provide Central City Sector during non-event times. improvements to the park based on the public • Buck Toms Park: Create a master plan for • Holston River Park and Boyd’s Island: process and master plan provided by the East a passive park, provide signs designating the Expand the park to the west along Riverside Tennessee Community Design Center. park and its rules, provide benches and plant Drive, add access points to Boyd’s Island and • William Hastie Natural Area: Provide natural trees and shrubs to improve its appearance. partner with UT to allow a trail loop there. surface trails and connection to surrounding Additionally, expand to include lots along • Knoxville Botanical Gardens: Work with the neighborhoods, Marie Myers Park and Ijams Piedmont and Sanderson Avenues. This would Garden Board to extend this open space system Nature Center. be compatible with the existing cemeteries and westward to Williams Creek Greenway. the rolling beautiful terrain. • Skyline Park: Repair the surface of the West City Sector • Central City Dog Park: Develop the dog park basketball courts and repair or replace the goals • Deane Hill Recreation Center: Repair at the edge of the Old City. and benches. playground equipment and consider expansion • Fulton Bicentennial Park: Provide sidewalk for additional outdoor recreation. connections to and from St. Mary’s Hospital for North City Sector • Rocky Hill Ballfields: Renovate bathrooms the benefit of guests and visitors. Additionally, • Fountain City Recreation Center: Improve and provide more trash receptacles. provide pathway within the park that will basketball court, kitchen and play structure. • Lakeshore Park: Redesign the greenway trail connect to nearby sidewalks. • Oakland Recreation Center: Preserve where the slope is too steep in order to meet • Sharps Ridge Memorial Park: Designate the the existing structure for its merits as part ADA standards. roadway, Sharps Ridge Memorial Park Drive, of African American history. Develop an • Sequoyah Hills Park: Repair parking lot and with a sign noting that it is bike facility as well improvement program, including better access. exercise stations. as vehicular road. Extend the natural-surface • Westview Park: Repair existing playgrounds, trail as a loop around the crest of the ridge. Northwest City Sector courts and goals, the gazebo and trail surfaces. • Cumberland Estates Recreation Center: • Whitlow Logan Park: Assess facilities in East City Sector Create a master plan for this resource and relation to the needs of the neighborhood; • Chestnut Square Park (formerly Union Square expand the opportunities for outdoor some citizens recommended tennis court repair, Park): Vacate the right-of-way of Curie Place recreation. others felt that the court space could be used and assimilate that land into the park. New • West Hills Park: Complete the second phase of for another purpose. sidewalks should be provided along with passive tennis center improvements.
83 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
East County Sector Northwest County Sector South County Sector • Ramsey House Historic Site: Work with the • Bearden Middle School: Provide nets for • I.C. King Park: Provide picnic units that are Association for the Preservation of Tennessee soccer and tennis and remove or repair fencing accessible from the parking area, current units Antiquities to create a passive park that for tennis courts. are only accessible by a trail through the woods, connects to Swan Pond Greenway. • Big Foot Park: Provide defined parking, an consider adding a playground so the park is • Riverdale Park: Provide an entrance sign for entrance sign and a map of the trails within the more user friendly to various ages; provide this park to draw attention to the existing park. accessible parking. facility. • Hickory Creek Park: Establish defined parking • Kimberlin Heights Park: Work with the • Thorngrove Community Park: Resurface areas and consider re-seeding the fields. owners and community groups to master plan basketball courts and provide new goals, • Karns High School: Work with the school this park, improve the baseball field, repair or maintain baseball infield, resurface parking board to resurface basketball, tennis and remove the concessions and storage buildings, lot and designated accessible spots, repair or outdoor volleyball courts, provide new nets and provide designated parking and appropriate replace the existing restrooms and concession fencing. park signs. building and provide new slides for playground, • Meadow Creek Soccer Complex: Provide an • Maloney Road Park: Improve and repair the consider expanding park uses across Thorngrove entrance sign and sign for the office. existing boat ramp. School Road in association with the reuse • Melton Hill Park: Provide a master plan for • Marine Park: Repair or replace grills, redesign of Thorngrove Elementary School as the this park to include provisions for community the pedestrian bridge to be accessible. Thorngrove Community Center. serving uses while conserving its natural assets. • Nicholas Ball Park: Repair or replace damaged Southwest County Sector North County Sector and graffiti-riddled picnic units and the roof • Former TVA Land: Create opportunities to • Brickey McCloud Elementary: Repair the over the covered drive. expand public access to these former TVA lands uneven walking track. • Plumb Creek Park: Provide a trail loop around which line the lake. • Halls Greenway Park: Address drainage the property and develop field space that can problems for soccer and baseball fields and used for various sports interchangeably (for provide a new backstop for the baseball field. example, soccer, rugby and football).
Northeast County Sector • Gibbs Elementary & High School Park: Repair basketball courts and consider adding additional courts. • Corryton Park: Maintain and update restrooms at this facility.
84 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Acknowledgements Special Thanks to the citizens of Knoxville and Knox County whose public participation and interest in creating parks and conserving open spaces has been outstanding and much appreciated.
Photo Credits: Photos were provided by the City and County parks and recreation departments or taken by MPC staff.
Knoxville’s Parks and Recreation Department Staff Knoxville/Knox County Metropolitan Planning Commission Staff Sam Anderson, Senior Director of Operations and Efficiencies Mike Carberry and Anne Wallace, Project Managers Joe Walsh, Deputy Director Mark Donaldson, Executive Director Donna Young, Greenways Coordinator Sarah Powell, Webmaster and Senior Graphic Designer Valerie Upton, Planning and Operations Manager Alex Zendel, GIS Analyst Mike Harris, Recreation Superintendent Terry Gilhula, Assistant Manager for Research Karen Briggs, Administrative Supervisor Kelley Segars, Senior Planner, Transportation Planning Organization Kathleen Gibi, Public Affairs Specialist Ellen Zavisca, Transportation Planner II Stefanie Waddell, Administrative Technician Parker Brown, Intern April Jones Burriss, Assistant Recreation Program Specialist Megan Bucknum, Intern Harold Denton, Recreation Superintendent Wes Moore, Intern Norman Bragg, Athletics Coordinator Elizabeth Trail, Intern Chris Dent, Intern Janie Wise, Intern
Knox County’s Parks and Recreation Department Staff Knox County Citizen Parks Advisory Board Members Doug Bataille, Senior Director Marty Bradley Greg Williams Everett Sinor, Maintenance Supervisor Danny Butler Sam Anderson, Ex-Officio Jeff Mayberry, Recreation Superintendent Steve Clabough Laura Boring, Ex-Officio Terry Shupp, Parks & Greenway Coordinator Kim Davis Mike Carberry, Ex-Officio Johnny Warren, Assistant Maintenance Superintendent Tom Hemrick Stephanie Brewer Cook, Ex-Officio Don Carnes, Parks Coordinator Wanda Henderlight Sue Stuhl, Ex-Officio Ellen Blasius, Parks Program & Marketing Coordinator Felicia Hoehne Joe Walsh, Ex-Officio Jennifer Gentry, Sports Supervisor Chris Howard Sandra Burton, Office Manager Paul James Deana Dillon, Recreation Coordinator David Long Linda Webber, Executive Assistant Bob Martin Pauline Chamberlain, Administrative Assistant Jennifer Morris Mark Henry, Payroll/Supply Clerk Ron Rochelle Frank Shanklin, Jr. Larry Smith, Knox County Commission Representative Laura Tappan Dr. Steven Waller
85 The Knoxville-Knox County Park, Recreation and Greenways Plan December 2009
Knoxville Greenway Commission Legacy Parks Foundation Board Will Skelton, Chair Carol Evans, Executive Director Nick Della Volpe, Holston Hills Joe Ayres, Managing Director, Cumberland Securities Sam Rogers, University of Tennessee Karen Bailey, Parks & Greenways Coordinator, Knox County Mike Carberry, Metropolitan Planning Commission Doug Bataille, Director of Parks & Recreation, Knox County, ex-officio Ellen Zavisca, Transportation Planning Organization Missy Kane Bemiller, Health Promotions Coordinator, Covenant Health Terry Faulkner, Forest Heights, Bearden Council of Neighborhoods Jonathan Brooks, Director, Triax Data, Inc. Kelley Segars, Transportation Planning Organization, Bike Coordinator Bob Calloway, Vice President for Advancement, East Tennessee Foundation, ex- Dr. Boyce Driskill, University of Tennessee, Archaeology Lab officio Kelly Scott, Fountain City Betsy Child, President, Geothermal Utilities Randy Humble, South Knoxville Pete Claussen, Chairman, Gulf & Ohio Railways Mark Campen, Knox Greenway Coalition Mark Field, Vice President of Membership, Knox Area Chamber Partnership Paul James, Ijams Nature Center Mike Fleming, Owner, 360 Media Development, treasurer Anne Wallace, MPC Scott Frith, Affiliate Broker, Realty Executive Associates Norman Johnson, Technical Advisor, Waterfield Design Steven Fritts, Vice President, Barge, Waggoner, Sumner and Cannon, Inc. Rodney Smith, Barge Waggoner Sandra Gillespie, Affiliated Broker, Dean-Smith, Inc. secretary Belinda Woodiel-Brill, KAT Kathy Hamilton, Chief Financial Officer, DoubleJay Creative Carol Evans, Legacy Parks Foundation Ivan Harmon, Knox County Commissioner Kimberly Chamberlin, Ft Sanders Brad Hill, President, DeMarco Group Marty Sonnenfeld, Knoxville Track Club Marv House, CEO, Merit Construction Karen Bailey, Knox County Greenway Coordinator Tim Irwin, Judge, Knox County Juvenile Court Douglas Berry, Blue Ridge Development, Alcoa Paul James, Executive Director, Ijams Nature Center, ex officio Tony Norman, Knox County David Long, President, Long, Ragsdale & Waters, P.C. Dan Murphy, Knox County School Board Tony Norman, Commissioner, Knox County Commission Charlie Thomas, North Knoxville Marilyn Roddy, Knoxville City Councilman, vice chair Kate McCullough, Fountain City Tommy Schmid, Executive Vice President, CapitalMark Bank and Trust Chris Burkhart, Technical Advisor for our next project Tommy Schumpert, Edscholar Program Director, Edsouth, chair John Innes, Technical Advisor Will Skelton, Attorney, Bass, Berry & Sims Ivan Harmon, Northwest Knoxville Joe Walsh, Director of Park & Recreation, City of Knoxville, ex-officio Grant Rosenberg, Knox County Bob Wilt, Vice President for Energy Development, Alcoa Lynn Liddington, Knox County Jamie Woodson, State Senator Chad Youngblood, SVP/General Manager, Fine Living Network Tim Zitzman, Real Estate Development
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