New Speed Bumps and Paving Concerns in Chattanooga’s Ridge Cut Area
Chattanooga is always buzzing with energy, but lately, the hot topic of conversation has been the installation of speed bumps in the Ridge Cut area, affectionately termed “Bragg’s Folly” by locals. This initiative has gained traction thanks to the heartfelt efforts of a concerned mama at the northern side of the Ridge Cut who spearheaded the “Save the Children” campaign. Her goal? To slow down those speeders and hopefully give thieves a clearer view of the things they might consider pilfering later on.
The Rise of Community Action
This campaign has taken off with the support of residents who have seen too many close calls. One anonymous member near this soon-to-be safe and spacious thoroughfare reported on the positive changes occurring with the installation of these new rubber speed bumps. However, not everyone is thrilled about the approach. A disgruntled former accountant lamented the fact that Chattanooga seems to have plenty of “natural speed humps” lying in the form of potholes that have gone unaddressed.
This ex-CPA, who voiced their opinions in a local chat, stated that fixing these myriad potholes would have been a better priority than rubber speed bumps. This brings us to the big question: how did we end up in a situation where speed bumps were deemed necessary without even addressing the underlying pothole crisis that has plagued the city?
A Paving Promise Unfulfilled
Let’s take a stroll down memory lane to 1929, when the good people of Missionary Ridge were promised that the wagon trail leading north from the Peach State boundary to Glass Street in East Chattanooga would finally be paved. And while the promise was kept in 1930, the road has since succumbed to neglect, with little more than patchwork repairs over the past 94 years.
It raises the question of who actually bears the brunt of this taxpayer expense. With the local residents left waiting patiently, should the responsibility fall on the federal government via the National Park Service, or is it the Gig City‘s duty to step up?
Political Football or Real Change?
As the community’s frustrations begin to bubble over, so too do rumors of a class-action lawsuit simmering among residents concerning damaged tires and broken axles, not to mention the emotional stress that comes with dodging these potholes. And with our multi-term Congressional Representative battling for re-election against a rival banker from McMinn County, attention is being drawn to the welfare needs of Missionary Ridge residents for a much-needed paving resolution.
In the Midst of Change
In light of these developments, the community has also noticed new signs popping up on S. Crest Road, covered in black garbage bags, hinting at the neighborhood’s transition. Residents seem to feel they might soon become the next group of potential theft victims, mirroring the concerns raised by the “Save the Children” initiative.
As Haywood Gordon, a resident of the Ridge, noted, “It’s all about making our community safer. We want to see real action and not just words. We deserve to have roads that we can trust.”
Looking Ahead
With these important conversations happening, locals are beginning to wonder what the future holds. Will the responsible parties finally take action and address both the speed bumps and the potholes with effective solutions? Perhaps a creative thought could be the melting down of those aged statues and plaques, selling the residue, and donating the proceeds to local art initiatives. Now, wouldn’t that be a progressive step in the right direction?
As always, we encourage anyone with insights, experiences or even suggestions for future historical pieces in the Chattanooga area to reach out. Your voice matters, and together, we can continue to create a vibrant and thriving community!
