Parks announces $11.3 million state award for Opry Mills Connector Greenway; multiple greenway projects move forward

Cindy Harrison delivered the Greenways and Open Space update, describing project status and funding moves across the system. She said the 7 Mile Creek Greenway — a participatory budget project — is advancing from preliminary into detailed design and that bids for the 440 Greenway Park Plaza would be sent to purchasing for construction later this summer.

Harrison outlined multiple projects in design or under construction, including Whites Creek Greenway final design and permitting with Piedmont Gas Company, the Richland Creek Greenway public-private partnership with a three-year build-out, and Harpeth River Greenway work tied to the Ariza at Bellevue development that includes acquisition of 25 acres of open space and an easement to continue the Wharton Mill greenway.

On a major funding development, Harrison said Metro was notified in December that the 2025 Transportation Alternatives Program award for the Opry Mills Connector Greenway totaled $11,300,000. "We were awarded $11,300,000 for that project and some change," she said, and staff said they will start coordination with the state immediately to kick off the project.

Board members praised the award and the partnership approach for projects that carry little to no cost to Metro in some cases. Harrison confirmed that certain development-led greenway components are being built and maintained by private partners under easements or license agreements, with no ongoing Metro Parks funding required for construction or perpetual maintenance in those cases.

Staff said more detailed schedules and procurement steps will be provided as projects move into construction.