Riverfront Master Plan
A strategic plan to unite five miles of riverfront
The City of Memphis has a storied history regarding its relationship to the Mississippi River. Whether through its popularity as a transportation hub, the hardships endured through great floods, or the culture from which the Blues and Rock ‘n Roll evolved, the Mississippi River has defined life in Memphis. Over time, the city seemed to separate itself from the river, no longer relying on it for commerce and transportation. The RDC worked with the public, through Cooper, Robertson & Partners to create and present the Memphis Riverfront Master Plan, a strategic plan to unite five miles of riverfront, to the Memphis City Council for consideration. The vision “Reunite the City with the River” was designed to do just that by making the majestic Mississippi River more accessible and visible for area residents and visitors to the Bluff City.
The Memphis Riverfront Master Plan was designed to be a “living” document that looked at the Memphis waterfront from a 35,000 foot elevation and considered its needs over a 50-year span. Since its initial acceptance by the Memphis City Council in 2004, a number of the plan elements have been further planned or designed, such as the docking facility at the foot of Beale Street and the blocks along the bluff commonly known as the Promenade.
One element of the Memphis Riverfront Master Plan, referred to as the land bridge, was later reviewed and determined to be unfeasible. After much discussion and debate, it was eliminated from the plan by the RDC Board of Directors. That change was subsequently presented to and approved by the Memphis City Council. As we continue to listen to public feedback, adjustments and enhancements are being made to help create world-class riverfront that everyone can enjoy.
Take a look at the Master Plan, but keep in mind: progress on the riverfront is being made all the time.