Middle Creek Greenway Phase III Completed; John Sevier Memorial Grove Construction Underway

Posted 04-17-20.

The newest section of City greenway was approved by TDOT last week. The Middle Creek Greenway Phase III project provides connectivity for residents in east Sevierville.

The $850,000.00 project (80% TDEC funding, 20% City funding) includes a new 12’ wide bridge that provides safe passage over Middle Creek parallel to Dolly Parton Parkway, and connects the Boys and Girls Club to both the Municipal Complex, King Family Library and the Sevierville Intermediate and Middle schools on High Street.

 

“This was an important section of greenway and we’re excited that it’s complete and open for use,” said Parks and Recreation Director Bob Parker. “Residents and visitors can now walk, run or cycle from east Sevierville to all the way to downtown Sevierville.”

Work is underway on the John Sevier Memorial Grove which is located along the new greenway section. The Chamber of Commerce and the City had been searching for property for future tree memorials for those individuals memorialized through the John Sevier Award Program. The chamber is partnering with the City to develop the new grove, where trees will be planted in memory of those that have supported and played a leadership role in the chamber. Phase I of the grove will include fifty-five new memorial tree plantings.

Also of note, the Sevier County Electric System through its Vegetative Management Program has agreed to donate fifty trees that will serve as a natural barrier around the property, plus provide riparian trees that will be planted along the riverbank. The riparian species of trees will provide natural erosion control and ground cover.

Both the new greenway and grove will be maintained by the Sevierville Department of Parks and Recreation. With the addition of this segment of greenway and greenspace, Sevierville is now approaching fifteen miles of greenways and trails.

Tentative plans are being made for a ribbon cutting ceremony in late May for the Middle Creek Greenway Phase III Project, Phase I of the John Sevier Memorial Grove, and the 36th Annual Arbor Day Celebration. The date is dependent upon the status of the COVID-19 pandemic.

For additional information on City greenways, Memorial Tree Program or Tree City USA, please contact Bob Parker-Director of Parks and Recreation at 865-868-1896 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..