Our 2025-2027 Strategic Plan

The Tennessee RiverLine is more than an idea—it’s a movement to transform the Tennessee River as a destination for connection, discovery, and celebration. Our Strategic Plan for 2025–2027 charts the path forward, focusing on enhancing outdoor recreation, community vitality, and environmental stewardship for generations to come.

An aerial view map of the Tennessee River is displayed with marketing along the the river including ones that say "bike", "camp", and "river access".

Our Vision and Mission

Vision: The Tennessee RiverLine is a continuous system of outdoor recreation experiences on and along the Tennessee River’s 652-mile reach, which reframes the river, adjacent public lands, and river communities as a dynamic 1.2-million-acre river park that welcomes all for generations to come.

Mission: To:

  • Celebrate the beauty, diversity, and history of the Tennessee River Valley.

  • Connect communities to each other and their river heritage.

  • Catalyze economic growth, public health, and environmental stewardship.

Key Goals for 2025–2027

Our Strategic Plan centers on five key priorities:

Two woman of color are in a canoe and one is throwing a peace sign to the camera. A man of color is in another paddlecraft behind them. All are enjoying time on the Tennessee River.

  1. Organize for Excellence
    Strengthen internal processes and governance to drive success.

  2. Ensure Financial Strength
    Build a resilient funding strategy for sustainable growth.

  3. Enhance RiverTowns and Experiences
    Improve infrastructure and access for inclusive recreation.

  4. Grow the Brand
    Expand awareness of the Tennessee RiverLine as a regional and national treasure.

  5. Expand and Engage the Network
    Foster partnerships and collaborations that unify our communities.

A woman and a young boy look at boards displaying images of people recreating along the Tennessee River.

Milestones on the Horizon

We are committed to measurable progress. Here’s a look at what’s ahead:

  • 2025: Launch three demonstration projects and expand our trip planning toolkit.

  • 2026: Introduce new RiverTown programs and develop new resources to enhance users’ experiences and trip planning.

  • 2027: Complete five major infrastructure projects and establish a formal partnership structure.

Two men in the foreground are looking at a map with many sticky notes on it. Another group of men in the background are in conversation.

How You Can Get Involved

The Tennessee RiverLine is a journey we take together. Here's how you can help: