The SoKno Rail Trail & Art Walk transforms a former rail corridor along Knoxville’s south waterfront into a 3.8-mile cultural, recreational, and transportation destination connecting Chapman Highway to Ijams Nature Center. Serving as both a commuter route and recreational trail, the project creates a new connection within Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness while linking neighborhoods, businesses, public art, and natural spaces.
Developed in partnership with Legacy Parks Foundation, the City of Knoxville, Dogwood Arts, Gulf & Ohio Railways, the Lawson Family Foundation, and community leaders, MHM is helping coordinate the places and experiences that come together along the trail. Our work includes collaborating with community and project stakeholders; developing a Community Kit to help neighborhoods participate in and activate the corridor; facilitating a cohesive signage and wayfinding package; and designing permanent and semi-permanent installations that contribute to the trail’s identity and user experience.
A 1.5-mile Art Walk extending from Kern’s Food Hall to the Island Home neighborhood will further activate the corridor through murals, sculptures, youth-created artwork, and other creative installations. Together, these elements transform a piece of former infrastructure into an evolving outdoor gallery and community asset—one that celebrates South Knoxville’s distinct character while creating new opportunities for movement, gathering, art, and connection.