Legacy Parks Foundation, in collaboration with Knox County and key partners, officially opened the new Cruze Landing adaptive boat launch in Knoxville, Tennessee. The initiative marks a significant step toward improving public access to the region’s waterways. Legacy Parks acquired the Cruze Landing property in 2020 to expand recreational opportunities along the river. The project includes accessible launch areas for both motorized and non-motorized boats, a connecting accessible fishing pier, and upgraded parking facilities to accommodate increased visitor traffic.
The Cruze Landing project was made possible through strategic partnerships with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA), the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), and local government. These improvements align with a shared goal to make East Tennessee's natural resources inclusive and available to all community members.
Carol Evans, Executive Director of Legacy Parks Foundation, highlighted that this launch is the first of several planned accessible river access points. Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs emphasized the broader benefits of such projects, including enhanced water quality, flood mitigation, and improved public health.
This development is part of the broader "Head of the Tennessee Initiative," which aims to boost public access to the French Broad and Holston Rivers from their dams to downtown Knoxville. Cruze Landing, located about five miles downstream from Seven Islands State Birding Park, plays a crucial role in this vision. A similar adaptive dock system has also been installed at the birding park.
Pictured: L to R - Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs, Seven Islands State Birding Park Manager Eric Collins, Knox County Parks and Recreation Director Joe Mack, Matt Cameron from TWRA, and Legacy Parks Executive Director Carol Evans
What: The new Cruze Landing adaptive boat launch in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Location: Approximately five miles downriver from Seven Islands State Birding Park. 7617 Kodak Rd, Knoxville, TN 37914.
Hours: Daylight Hours
LegacyParks.org