KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — The Seven Islands State Birding Park got a $7.7 million grant to build a 400-foot pedestrian bridge across the French Broad River, the Legacy Parks Foundation said. It is also adding new land.
The bridge is planned to be fully ADA accessible. It would connect 90 acres of parkland recently donated to the state, containing three houses, a nesting bald eagle and a second nest under construction.
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“This project represents exactly what Legacy Parks strives to do—connect people to nature,” said Carol Evans, Executive Director of Legacy Parks Foundation. “The bridge will not only expand access to Seven Islands State Birding Park but also protect critical habitats and enhance recreation opportunities for generations to come.”
Legacy Parks Foundation also said it was donating three islands bordering the park representing about 56 acres. This, along with the 90 acres mentioned above, brings the park’s total to 526 acres…