Designed to improve stormwater management while creating a scenic public place for recreation, the Robinson Lake Project reflects the city’s long-term approach to sustainable growth. To better understand how engineering, environmental stewardship, and community needs intersect at Robinson Lake, we spoke with Shahad Abdulrahman, an engineer with the city of Franklin. She shared insight into the project’s purpose, its technical challenges, and how careful planning is shaping a space that will serve residents for generations to come.
Tell us a little about the Robinson Lake project.
History: In 2017, the city of Franklin purchased 75.5 acres known as Robinson Lake from the developer that constructed Lockwood Glen. It was sold to the city for $500k, knowing the land was in the floodway/floodplain along with a non-working dam that would need to be rebuilt if the lake was to be open to the public. As part of a public-private partnership, Lockwood Glen & the city together developed a conceptual master plan in 2016 before the city moved forward with the purchase so that both parties could understand and agree on the overall vision for the property. The land with the lake belonged to the Robinson Family, and from what we can tell through maps, was constructed in the late 1940s. It was a 1949 map of Franklin that labeled Robinson Lake as a destination on the map, which is why we considered this a significant part of Franklin’s community's heritage. This land is more than just acreage with a lake. It's a tangible connection to our agricultural past, a testament to our shared local history of just one of many farming families on the east side of town, and a source of pride and nostalgia for many residents in Franklin.
The master plan, completed in 2016, envisions transforming this land into a multifaceted public park that enhances the quality of life for all residents. With ADA walking trails, access for kayaks and canoes for water recreation like paddle boarding and fishing, and an additional 27 acres of green space, this park promises to be a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. The park's design includes amenities for walk-up sports, movies in the park, and even mini triathlons, creating a vibrant, active destination within the city of Franklin that complements the entire park system.
However, the uniqueness of this park lies in its rich history. The Robinson Family not only owned the land but also allowed fishing and swimming for many years, fostering a sense of community and belonging. The Nichols Cemetery, located beside Robinson Lake and originally close to their home, further underscores its historical significance. The three formal markers on site include John Nichols (1827-1905), his wife Elizabeth Nichols (1830-1888), and their son John M. Nichols (1866-1880), who lived, farmed, and was buried on the property.
As a city, we had a unique opportunity to preserve this invaluable piece of our heritage while repurposing it in a way that benefits the entire community. By creating an outdoor recreational area on floodplain and floodway property, we can offer a unique recreational space that no other entity in town can provide. This dual-purpose use not only honors our past, meaning the land, but also ensures a sustainable and enjoyable future for generations in the surrounding neighborhood. This will be their community park: Ladd Park, Echelon, Waters Edge, Cannonwood and Falcon Creek, all within walking distance. This lake and land tie back to our local history and preserving the lake with the same reverence as a 75+ year-old structure is significant for this side of town.
Why did the dam need upgrading?
When the city of Franklin purchased the Robinson Lake property, it was impounded by an unregulated earthen embankment dam with numerous dam safety deficiencies. It was originally built by the owner who used the land for farming. The city of Franklin performed extensive geotechnical and geophysical surveys to determine a safe design to rehabilitate the site.
What types of amenities will the park offer?
This park will have an open green space that can be used for movies at the park, picnics, open-air concerts, etc., a greenway with a boardwalk that wraps around the lake, an ADA boat dock, and the lake will be stocked with a variety of fish for visitors to fish.
Can visitors swim in Robinson Lake?
No, swimming will not be allowed but adaptive recreation, paddle boarding, paddle board yoga, and fishing are just a few of the activities that will be allowed as the canoe dock will be fully accessible for all skill levels and abilities.
Is Robinson a natural lake or a man-made lake?
It is a man-made lake.
Where did the city get the name of the lake from?
It was named prior to the city purchasing it.
When is the project expected to be completed?
The project is estimated to be substantially completed at the end of summer 2026, weather pending, of course, but we hope to complete it within that timeline.
FranklinTN.gov