Park Projects

Shaping the future of Overton Park through thoughtful restoration, access, and community connection.

Ongoing Projects

Greensward Restoration

After three decades of overflow parking, the Greensward is being permanently returned to public use. The Memphis Zoo is relocating its maintenance area to the park’s southeast corner, freeing up space for designated parking. Once complete, overflow parking will cease. Overton Park Conservancy will then remediate the Greensward and construct a walking path around its perimeter.

Old Forest State Natural Area

In collaboration with the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, the Conservancy manages 126 acres of this unique old-growth forest.

Volunteers work each winter to remove invasive species like Chinese privet and Japanese honeysuckle.
Native oak trees are seeded in cleared areas.
In 2025, a previously fenced 17-acre section will be opened with a new walking path and invasive-species removal plan.
Ongoing research aims to improve the resilience of urban natural areas amid climate change and human activity.

Entrances and Access Improvements

We’re working with the City of Memphis to enhance safe and welcoming park entry points for pedestrians and cyclists.

Recently Completed:

New sidewalk on Poplar Avenue (Tucker St. to Veterans Plaza Dr.)
Bike trail connecting the Hampline to Old Forest trails
Sidewalk repairs along North Parkway

Upcoming Enhancements:

Cooper Street entrance improvements
New bike and pedestrian landing area
Pathway linking Cooper entrance to existing trail system

Upcoming Enhancements from Park Planning

Building on community feedback and strategic planning, the following projects are in development:

Renovated East Parkway Pavilion and picnic area
Reimagined East Parkway Playground
Restoration and naturalization of Rainbow Lake
Discovery boardwalk and new nature pavilion at Rainbow Lake
Nature trail through former zoo exhibit acreage
Greensward arrival plaza, loop trail, and picnic spaces
Southeast corner park amenities

Completed Projects

Since 2011, Overton Park Conservancy has completed numerous projects to make the park more accessible, welcoming, and ecologically vibrant.

Overton Bark

1.3-acre enclosed dog park

Restrooms

New permanent facilities at Rainbow Lake and East Parkway Pavilions

Old Forest Trail

Renovation of the 1.4-mile limestone loop

Rainbow Lake Playground

Reimagined nature-based play space

Bike & Pedestrian Plaza

Iconic East Parkway entry and sculpture

Wayfinding & Trail Markers

Installed throughout the park and Old Forest

Welcome Gateways

Artful entrances to the Old Forest

Historic Golf Course

Renovation of the 9-hole Overton Park 9 course

Entrance Improvements

Enhancements for safety and accessibility

Invasive Plant Management

Ongoing forest stewardship

Community Programming

100+ annual events centered on nature, health, and creativity

Comprehensive Park Plan

Developed to guide future enhancements and conservation strategies