Once a 1000’ high hill topped by a Union Civil War fort, Augusta Quarry has transformed through decades of limestone excavation into a tranquil 200-foot-deep lake surrounded by dramatic ramps and cliff faces. Following its closure in the 1970s, the site has become a haven for informal water activities. PORT and Sanders Pace Architecture have partnered with the Aslan Foundation and the City of Knoxville to formalize Augusta Quarry into one of Knoxville’s most popular recreation destinations.

The design prioritizes safety, accessibility, and ecological restoration while celebrating the quarry’s rich history and industrial heritage. The project features include:

• Formalized park entry: A new access road, signage, and wayfinding systems create a welcoming and navigable arrival experience for visitors. Parking areas and accessible pathways ensure inclusive access for all.
• Floating docks and swimming piers: Strategically placed docks and piers extend recreational opportunities while preserving the lake’s existing shallow-water swimming areas and the quarry’s iconic boulder outcroppings.
• Redesigned ramps and overlooks: Quarry ramps and cliff-side overlooks are reimagined with safety measures and accessible trails, offering dramatic views and connecting visitors to the lakefront.
• Integrated visitor amenities: Restroom and changing kiosks, vendor storage, and picnic areas are thoughtfully designed into the site’s rugged topography, blending seamlessly with the landscape.
• Ecological restoration: A comprehensive strategy includes invasive species management, habitat creation, and native plantings to enhance biodiversity and stabilize the site’s rewilded environment.

Phase 1, completed in 2019, included parking areas, accessible paths, and significant native plantings. Phase 2, currently under construction, focuses on enhancing water access and amenities such as restroom and changing kiosks, additional overlooks, and an extended waterfront experience.