City of Chattanooga Launches Walnut Street Bridge App Ahead of Major
Renovation Project
Chattanooga, TN – (January 27th, 2024) The City of Chattanooga has launched
the Walnut Street Bridge app, now available on Apple’s App Store and soon
on Google mobile platforms. As part of this initiative, residents and
visitors can also sign up for free text alerts to stay informed throughout
the bridge’s first major renovation in 30 years.
The Walnut Street Bridge App and complimentary text alert service provide
real-time updates and essential information to help the community navigate
the upcoming changes. Through the app, users can access:
-
Detour routes and construction updates
-
Details about temporary art installations along alternative routes
-
Exclusive deals and offers from North Shore merchants made possible
through the City’s collaboration with the North Shore Merchants Collective
-
General information about Chattanooga and its attractions for citizens
and guests
The free text alert service will send timely updates, ensuring the public
stays informed as the project progresses.
The Walnut Street Bridge Renovation project will officially begin on March
17, 2025, with pre-construction preparations, including fencing and
platform installation on the underside of the bridge, starting on February
17, 2025. The bridge will remain open during the initial setup phase with
full closure starting March 17th.
The $35.3 million renovation, spanning 18 months, will involve
comprehensive upgrades to preserve and enhance the historic Walnut Street
Bridge. Key improvements include stripping and repainting the structure to
prevent rust and extend its lifespan, replacing the aging timber decking,
upgrading wiring to support the installation of modern lighting and
advanced security features and overall structural repairs.
To accommodate pedestrians and cyclists during construction, the City has
designated the Veterans Memorial Bridge as the official alternative route.
This route will feature lane closures and protective barriers for safety,
alongside vibrant artwork by artist Ebony Bolt
<https://docs.google.com/document/d/1F88Ag2VSuE8oU9tesFdBz6ZldLhDqHAj9E1FlOv0PRw/edit?usp=sharing>,
celebrating Chattanooga’s diverse heritage and history. Additionally, a new
mural will be commissioned on the south side of Veterans Memorial Bridge
near Riverside Drive.
The project is primarily funded through federal resources, totaling $18.8
million, with an additional $16 million from the city’s Hotel-Motel Tax and
contributions from Economic Development funds. The City has worked closely
with local stakeholders and event organizers to minimize disruptions to
major events during construction.
For more information, download the Walnut Street Bridge App in the Apple
App Store and soon be available on all Android phones. To sign up for free
text alerts, text “WSB” to 423-249-9181.