Mud Island is up for a raft of updates before the summer season begins, including the new “Soul” sign we told you about yesterday.
The new sign and the changes are planned by the Memphis River Parks Partnership (MRPP). In our story yesterday, we said the sign was requested by the city of Memphis parks department, which is technically true, however, the MRPP worked through the department on the application.
For the sign, MRPP explained that the slogan — “we have no time for things with no soul” — is to “welcome visitors this summer and remind us all that here in Memphis — We Have Soul.” The color of the flags surrounding the installation “match the brand (and park furniture) of Mud Island Park.”
“The Partnership is always looking for opportunities to add features and attract new activity to the riverfront,” said MRPP president and CEO Carol Coletta. “Following the runaway success of the ‘MEMPHIS’ sign, this temporary placemaking activation adds visual interest to the island from Downtown and gives Memphians and visitors a new reason to visit the island.
“It’s going to be a very popular photo spot and, together with a whole package of upgrades, will generate new interest and foot traffic on Mud Island Park this summer.”
The Downtown Memphis Commission’s Design Review Board is slated to review the new sign during its meeting today at 4 p.m.
But the new sign is just one upgrade headed for Mud Island this year. Those include:
• Replacement and renewal of the slate map of Memphis on the Riverwalk.
• Removal of inoperable flagpoles at the south tip of the island and replaced with a new seating area and the best views to the forthcoming construction on Tom Lee Park.
• Repainting of the Gulf Grill and installation of a significant mural by Qwynto.
• Repainting of entrance murals, park fixtures and furnishings.
• New colored lighting on trees in the grove. “Thirty-six LED light fixtures will add a soft glow to the trees in the grove and provide a beautiful backdrop for the Memphis skyline.”
• Replacement of all turf on the south lawn with new, laser-leveled sod that will be more resilient to traffic.
“So many Memphians hold fond memories of childhood visits to Mud Island Park,” said Tyree Daniels, MRPP board chair. “The island is still a unique place with the unbeatable feeling of being ‘on’ the Mississippi River. These new features and upgrades give us all a new opportunity to make memories this summer.”
Mud Island Park is open every day, year round. The Mississippi River Museum is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Also in that time frame, water fills the Riverwalk and concessions are available.
To celebrate the 2021-season opening, museum entrance and kayak rentals will be free on Memorial Day weekend.
