CHATTANOOGA, TN (July 9, 2025) – After a productive discussion following
yesterday’s City Council meeting, Chattanooga Public Works announces an
explanation of the temporary closure of a popular section of the Riverwalk,
effective July 14th 2025 through April of 2026 to facilitate the
construction of the new Erlanger Park baseball stadium. This closure, while
essential for the progress of the "One Chattanooga" initiative, aims to
balance the city's growth with the safety of all citizens, particularly the
vibrant cycling community.
The affected section of the Riverwalk is a vital artery for many bicycle
enthusiasts, serving both recreational and commuter needs. Public Works
acknowledges the significant impact this closure will have and understands
the concerns previously raised by the biking community following an earlier
announcement by Parks and Outdoors Public Relations Director Brian Smith.
We recognize and deeply respect our biking community, and we wholeheartedly
care about their well-being. Our overarching principle of safety for all
citizens will always guide our decisions. While we explored numerous
options for a safe alternate route, several factors prevented us from
endorsing them.
We thoroughly evaluated several potential detours, including:
- Chestnut Street: While open, it will serve as the primary construction
route, posing significant safety concerns for cyclists and pedestrians due
to heavy truck traffic and material transport. - Railroad Crossing near Chestnut Street: This crossing is unsuitable for
ADA accessibility and small bikes/foot traffic. Public Works does not own
the tracks and cannot mandate changes to the railroad infrastructure.
Placing fast-moving bikes, families, and children on a construction road
with such an impediment was deemed unsafe. - W 26th Street: This street will also be undergoing construction for
widening and extension into the parking lot, making it an unsuitable and
unsafe alternative. - Private Property Cut-Through: A suggested cut-through via a gated side
road is on private property, and the city cannot compel its opening for
public use. Additionally, the road would require significant repaving to
meet safety and ADA standards. - Broad Street Lane Closure: Closing a lane on Broad Street would create a
logistical nightmare, especially during commutes. While a shoulder closure
on Veterans Bridge was successful, that bridge's unique design allowed for
such an accommodation without severely impacting traffic. Broad Street, as
a state highway, falls under state jurisdiction, and the state is not
prepared to close a lane for this project, nor is it a viable option for
families or less experienced cyclists given the heavy traffic volume.
We understand that with the growth of Chattanooga, there will be some
temporary sacrifices so that all citizens can enjoy our 'One Chattanooga
however, we are committed to finding collaborative solutions.
In a prime example of community cooperation, Councilwoman Raquetta Dotley
has suggested an alternate route through Alton Park. The biking community
has enthusiastically agreed to conduct a test ride to assess the
feasibility and safety of this proposed detour. This kind of collaboration
and cooperation exemplifies the spirit of One Chattanooga and we are
optimistic that working together with our citizens, we can find a solution
that prioritizes safety while still supporting our vibrant biking community
during this necessary construction period.
Public Works will provide updates on the Alton Park test ride and any
further developments regarding alternate routes. The city and our
department appreciates the public's understanding and patience as
Chattanooga continues to grow and improve for all its residents.
About Department of Public Works:
The Department of Public Works delivers a variety of services that
Chattanooga's citizens rely on daily. Responsibilities include the design,
construction and maintenance of the City's infrastructure; the interceptor
sewer system; the City's stormwater system; the collection and disposal of
garbage, brush, recycling, and household hazardous waste; parks
maintenance, programming and operations. Follow @CHAPublicWorks on Facebook
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