KNOXVILLE - The City of Knoxville will hold a Gay Street Bridge Fun Walk, Run or Bike celebration in conjunction with the Knoxville Track Club. The event will be held on Friday, January 16, at 6:00 pm. The commemorative “crossing” will begin at the intersection of Hill Ave. and Gay St., and finish at the intersection of Davenport Rd. and Sevier Avenue in South Knoxville. The entire route is less than one mile.



“We wanted to celebrate the opening of the Gay St. Bridge with the entire community and this event seemed like a great way to do it,” said Mayor Indya Kincannon. “This night is not about a race, but instead celebrating this connection in our city that has been preserved and reimagined. Thank you to the Knoxville Track Club for partnering with us. I look forward to seeing everyone out there.”

Participants do not need to register, but should check in and get a bib at the KTC tent at the start line, prior to the race. It’s important to note that race bibs from the Fun Walk, Run or Bike celebration will be good for discounts at area businesses. Look for announcements in the coming days about participating merchants.



“We are so happy to be working with the City and local merchants to create this exciting opportunity to bring people together,” said KTC Executive Director Eric Weatherbee. “I hope the reopening of the Gay St. Bridge encourages more people to get out, stretch their legs, and reconnect with people and businesses on both sides of the river.”

It’s important to note that there will be a rolling start, with the first wave of cyclists taking off at 6 p.m. Each wave will consist of no more than 50 people. Snacks, music, and photo opportunities will be available at the finish line, and free shuttles back to the start line will also be available from 7-8 p.m.