Memphis, TN, Dec. 12, 2025 — Following over two decades of work, the Cobblestone Landing Restoration Project is now complete, marking the revitalization of one of Memphis’ most important historic landscapes.
Memphis’ Cobblestone Landing is one of the last remaining intact historic cobblestone river landings in the United States, located on the Mississippi River waterfront in downtown Memphis. It was originally built in the mid-1800s as part of the city’s river port infrastructure, when steamboats brought cotton, lumber, and other goods to Memphis.
The $17 million restoration project funded by the City of Memphis and the Tennessee Department of Transportation includes a series of improvements designed to both preserve the site’s historic character and enhance its public usability.
These enhancements include:
- Stabilization and conservation of the historic cobblestones, including resetting and reinforcing original materials.
- Erosion protection and riverbank stabilization, ensuring the long-term health of the landing.
- New, accessible pathways and safer public entry points, enabling more Memphians and visitors to engage with this historic riverside space.
- Seamless integration with the riverfront park system, creating stronger connections between downtown and the Mississippi River.
- Relocate and install new marine-grade underground utilities.
The Union Avenue Overlook now offers an elevated vantage point with expansive views of both the river and the restored landing, providing visitors with a unique way to experience the site’s history and the broader Memphis riverfront.
City leaders, project partners and community members gathered earlier today for a ribbon-cutting ceremony, celebrating the completion of the project and site’s renewed role on the Memphis riverfront.
“This restoration pays tribute to Memphis’ river heritage and fosters a revitalized sense of place along the Mississippi,” said Manny Belen, City Engineer. ”Cobblestone Landing serves as a symbol of the city’s history, and we are excited to have it preserved and reopened for the community.”
The City and its partners invite residents and visitors alike to explore the restored Cobblestone Landing and enjoy this revitalized piece of Memphis’ riverfront identity. The core project team Precise Contracting, Tetra Tech, Ritchie Smith Associates, Chronicle Heritage, Malasri Engineering, CEI Team, The City of Memphis Engineering Department, Memphis River Parks Partnership, and Memphis Riverboats.
