New River North greenway foreshadows Nashville's East Bank parks plan
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A view of downtown from the new River North greenway. Photo: Nate Rau/Axios
The River North greenway opened to the public last week, offering a friendly walking path with a picturesque view on the East Bank of the Cumberland River.
Why it matters: River North is the first leg of a more ambitious greenway plan that will connect the Oracle campus all the way to Shelby Bottoms Park.
- The project sits along the river, which has historically been sealed off to the public on the underdeveloped East Bank.
What he's saying: Mayor Freddie O'Connell celebrated the greenway at a media event last week, touting the city's commitment to adding 118 acres of parks and open space as part of the mixed-use development
- "Our shared vision is for a place that shows respect for the river and allows us to enjoy its beauty," he said. "We want public spaces that are welcoming for all with safe connections that unite with surrounding neighborhoods."
The vibe: The greenway has wide walking paths with plenty of places to sit and take in the river. It also has a unique view of the downtown skyline.
- The entry is right next to the River North Shake Shack and a short stroll from the Hoppin' River North beer bar, so you can walk off whatever calories you may accumulate.
- You can park for free for up to two hours in the parking lot adjacent to the nearby development.
The big picture: O'Connell has been on something of a ribbon-cutting tour for new parks and public spaces. Earlier this summer, the city finalized a deal to acquire 300 acres to expand Beaman Park.
- Mariposa Park, in southeast Davidson County, also recently opened.
- In the pipeline: Greenway expansions and improvements, including connecting Park Plaza to Centennial Park along Interstate 440, linking Sevier Park to Browns Creek Pike, and the Opry Mills connector greenway, according to the mayor's office.
What's next: The River North greenway comes in advance of Oracle's planned pedestrian bridge, which will connect the East Bank to the Germantown neighborhood. Oracle funded the new greenway.
- Once it's finished, the full East Bank greenway will be nearly 2 miles long.