A TENNESSEE RIVERLINE INITIATIVE
The RiverLine Hub
The Tennessee RiverLine will connect residents across four states, thirty-two counties, and dozens of communities through a 652-mile network of waterfront recreation experiences. The Planning & Design Guidelines support this “River as Park” vision with unified design guidance for a RiverLine that is resilient, adaptable, and accessible to all.
The Vision
The Tennessee RiverLine Planning & Design Guidelines provide a series of implementable, scalable, and adaptable site strategies and elements that support the mission of improving and expanding access along the full 652-mile reach of the Tennessee River.
The Guidelines help communities navigate site selection, ecologically resilient and diverse design, permitting, implementation, and long-term management and maintenance—while creating a more connected and cohesive RiverLine experience.
Discover the River Story
The River Story traces the Tennessee River through its history, culture, ecology, communities, recreation, and economy, showing how the river’s past and present are deeply connected.
Together, these stories and conditions provide a foundation for understanding the people, places, opportunities, and challenges that shape the RiverLine today and inform its future.
Explore the Guidelines
The Planning & Design Guidelines provide practical direction for creating safe, accessible, and connected river experiences. Explore the Guidelines by volume and download what’s most relevant to your work.
Browse the Guidelines
Plan with The Well
The Well is an interactive resource hub that helps communities explore the Guidelines, understand local conditions, and turn ideas into plans for a more connected RiverLine.
Visit the Well
About the Project
The Tennessee RiverLine Planning & Design Guidelines provide a shared framework for shaping a connected, resilient, and accessible river experience across the Tennessee River Valley. Developed for communities throughout the 652-mile RiverLine, the Guidelines translate the “River as Park” vision into practical strategies that can adapt to different places, needs, and resources. Together, they support thoughtful investment in the river and the communities that call it home.
View Project Goals and PhasesA “River Park” for All
Create a safe, accessible network of river experiences that strengthens connections between people, communities, and the Tennessee River.
An Engine for Economic Growth
Support local investment, regional collaboration, and recreation-based economic opportunities that can grow alongside RiverLine communities.
An Enhanced & Protected River System
Balance access with protection, restoration, and stewardship to support the long-term ecological health of the Tennessee River.
An Asset for Future Generations
Celebrate the river’s culture, heritage, and sense of place while creating resilient recreation opportunities designed to endure for generations.
