KNOXVILLE - The City of Knoxville is set to reopen one of the most iconic sections of the Third Creek Greenway tomorrow, Friday, April 3. The Zig Zag Bridge, formerly named the Ulmer Bridge, has undergone a complete rebuild by the City’s Public Service Department in less than two months. This 200-foot-long pedestrian bridge honors John Ulmer, a dedicated bicycling enthusiast and planner from the 1970s who played a pivotal role in developing the greenway network.

Alison Bullock, Knoxville’s Parks and Greenways Coordinator, emphasized the significance of the reconstruction project. The original bridge had suffered extensive deterioration, including rotten structural components and a large hole in the deck. To ensure safety and longevity, the rebuilding crew dismantled the bridge down to its foundational 8-by-8-foot posts, preserving only the metal railing. The rebuild utilized top-quality pressure-treated lumber, promising many years of reliable service.

Chris Webster, Deputy Director of Public Service, expressed pride in the project team’s careful craftsmanship and skillful execution. A notable upgrade to the bridge deck includes replacing the previously slick shingles with metal safety treads to greatly enhance traction for pedestrians, runners, and bicyclists.

Key personnel involved in the bridge reconstruction were foremen Parkey Kelley and Kevin Johnson, along with crew members Tim Huffman, Tim Johnson, Thomas Melton, Jody Dykes, Brendan Buckner, Benny Burrell, Philip Patty, Josh LeClair, and Boyd Rutherford. Supporting horticulture staff contributed as well, including Mark Navarro, Zach Gilkey, Colby Nixon, Darrell Evans, Erickson Mesa, Roy Strevel, Phillip Wrinkle, Tony Walker, Clayton Curtis, Denim Thames, Jonathan Parker, Nicholas Ferro, and Ryan Crawford.

In parallel, repairs are underway on the James White Greenway near Volunteer Landing on the North Waterfront. This section has suffered from erosion and structural decline, with a 400-foot stretch of asphalt deteriorating and railings leaning dangerously toward the river. Since February, Public Service crews have been removing damaged materials, reconstructing the subgrade, pouring concrete, and reinforcing the adjacent riverbank. Installation of a new safety fence is planned as work continues.

Additionally, improvements have been made at the railroad track crossing on the western end of the James White Greenway to create a smoother transition for greenway users. This area is also expected to reopen within approximately one month.

These ongoing projects highlight Knoxville’s commitment to maintaining and enhancing its greenway system, ensuring safe, accessible, and enjoyable outdoor spaces for residents and visitors alike.