Memphis River Line Gets a New Look

New signage in Martyrs Park points the way to Big River Crossing and back

Current maps for the 5 mile-long Memphis River Line show a sharp turn out of Martyrs Park at the line’s south end on the way to Big River Crossing. But many people mistakenly take a short cut through a solemn Memorial Garden at The Church of the River (The First Unitarian Church), which has resulted in unintentional damage to the church grounds and potential for disruption of religious services.

To clarify the official public route and eliminate the trespassing and damage on private property, Memphis River Parks is adding new signage on the pavement in Martyrs Park and at Big River Crossing to help pedestrians and cyclists more confidently navigate the south end of the River Line.

To reinforce the correct River Line route, The Church of the River is erecting a fence along its property line at the south end of Martyrs Park.

“We are pleased to work with The Church of the River to restore the contemplative nature of its Memorial Garden and direct River Line visitors to the designated trail,” said Carol Coletta, president and CEO of Memphis River Parks Partnership. “The designated trail is a very quick, simple way for pedestrians and cyclists to get between these important assets, and we hope everyone will embrace it.”

“We pride ourselves on being good neighbors for the surrounding area,” said Rev. Sam Teitel, minister of The Church of the River. “So we are grateful for the new signage and collaborative work with the Memphis River Parks Partnership. In the 54 years since moving to a then-undeveloped riverfront, we’ve never been more excited by the spirit of community that we’ve seen lately, a spirit that continues with these new improvements.”