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CITY OF KNOXVILLE By Quineka Moten
From Rot to Rebuilt: Knoxville’s

Ulmer (Zig Zag) Bridge Rises Again

One of Knoxville’s most recognizable In addition to strengthening the network. Its closure was felt by many,
stretches of the Third Creek Greenway— structure, the rebuild also improved particularly leading up to a major event
the Zig Zag Bridge, formally named the the experience for greenway users. The like the Knoxville Marathon.
Ulmer Bridge—has been completely previous decking, which could become Now reopened, the rebuilt bridge stands
rebuilt in less than two months by the slick over time, was replaced with metal as both a restored community asset and an
City’s Public Service Department. safety treads to enhance traction for example of responsive, high-quality public
The 200-foot-long structure honors pedestrians, runners, and cyclists. service. What was once a deteriorating
John Ulmer, a bicycling enthusiast and Restoring a Community Landmark structure has been transformed into a safe,
planner in the 1970s who helped develop The Ulmer Bridge is more than a durable feature that will serve residents—
Knoxville’s greenway system. crossing—it is a well-known and well- and marathon participants—for years to
What began as a routine repair quickly used feature of Knoxville’s greenway come.
revealed a much larger challenge. As
crews assessed the bridge, they uncovered
widespread deterioration, including
rotting structural components and
significant safety concerns. Rather than
attempt temporary fixes, the decision
was made to fully reconstruct the bridge,
bringing it down to its core framework,
and rebuilding it from the studs up.
A Marathon Timeline with Real Stakes
The urgency behind the project
extended beyond routine maintenance.
The Third Creek Greenway—and the Zig
Zag Bridge—were part of the route for
the annual Covenant Health Knoxville
Marathon, making timely completion
critical.
With race weekend approaching, crews
worked diligently to ensure the bridge
would be safe, accessible, and ready for
runners and spectators alike. The timeline
left little room for delay, requiring
coordination, flexibility, and a strong
commitment across teams to keep the
project on track.
Facilities and Horticulture crews
worked side by side throughout the
rebuild, combining structural expertise
with environmental awareness to deliver
a finished product that met both safety
standards and the expectations of a high-
profile community event.
Built from the Studs Up
With the extent of the damage clear,
crews dismantled the existing structure
down to its posts—retaining only the
original metal railing—and began
reconstruction using high-quality,
pressure-treated lumber designed for
long-term durability.
24 TPW July/August 2026