Memphis Riverfront: A Transformation 100 Years in the Making
The Memphis riverfront is undergoing an acclaimed transformation, one 100 years in the making. Inspired by a vision proposed by urban planner Harland Bartholomew in 1924, the riverfront now stands as a testament to the city’s character.
“Today, the riverfront is not merely unattractive, but represents a flagrantly unprofitable use of the property … With proper architectural design, attractive lighting and the exercise of care in both public and private construction, this riverfront could be transformed into a picture of combined commercial and recreational activities truly representative of the city’s character and unsurpassed in attractiveness in any other city.”
The Catalyst of Change
The inception of the Memphis River Parks Partnership in 2018 spurred significant change – reimagining the city’s riverfront. The catalyst of this transformative endeavor was none other than lifelong Memphian, Carol Coletta, known for her ranking as one of the most influential women urbanists. Stepping down from her national platform at Kresge Foundation, she dedicated her expertise to the riverfront parks’ transformation – a decision that forever changed the course of Memphis riverfront.
Making Bartholomew’s Vision a Reality
Memphis River Parks Partnership invoked swift action. Confederate-named parks were renamed and redesigned to be more inclusive. Merging the riverfront with multi-purpose pathways, they created the River Line, a five-mile walking and biking trail. The attention to detail was so magnificently executed that the newly installed signage won a national design award.
A Record Setting Transformation
In 2021, the city broke ground on a reimagined Tom Lee Park which by Labor Day had recorded a staggering 42% participation in MWBE (Minority or Women-owned Businesses), surpassing City of Memphis’s target of 25%. Such achievements did not go unnoticed, with Tom Lee Park winning competitive grants from the Mellon Foundation, U.S. Department of Commerce, Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, and U.S. Congress. In its first seven months, the park has seen more than 500,000 visitors.
More than Just a Park
The transformation of Memphis riverfront is about more than just revamping parks. It’s about creating unique experiences, improving health outcomes, educating school students, and building a sense of community. Above all else, the riverfront is a physical manifestation of the city’s values and rich history.
The Future of the Riverfront Parks
There’s still much to look forward to with future plans hinting at further improvements and new uses for all riverfront parks, including Mud Island Park. Guided by their proven success and public affirmation, the Partnership aims to continue to work with local administration to elevate the city’s beloved riverfront.
Today, every resident of Memphis can take pride in their transformed riverfront, a bustling hub of commercial and recreational activities, bringing to life a 100-year-old vision into a reality enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
