Chattanooga’s Walnut Street Bridge Set for $35.3 Million Renovation After 30 Years

Chattanooga’s Walnut Street Bridge Gets a Much-Needed Facelift

Hey there, Chattanooga! We’ve got some exciting news to share about a local landmark that’s about to get a major makeover. That’s right, the historic Walnut Street Bridge is set to undergo its first significant renovation in 30 years, thanks to the efforts of the City Council and our friends at Southern Road and Bridge. This is a big deal for our community, so let’s break down what you need to know!

What’s Happening?

Chattanooga City Council members recently approved a contract with Southern Road and Bridge, marking the beginning of a project that will breathe new life into the Walnut Street Bridge. The renovation comes with an impressive budget of $35.3 million—that’s a whole lot of cash for a whole lot of repairs!

Where’s the Money Coming From?

Now, you might be wondering, “How on earth is this being funded?” Well, the bulk of the budget comes from federal resources, totaling about $18.8 million. But that’s not all! The city’s hotel-motel tax is kicking in with over $16 million, alongside some cash from economic development funds. It’s great to see that such a significant project is being supported on multiple fronts!

Timeline for the Project

As with any major renovation, there’s a timeline to keep in mind. While preliminary work begins on Halloween of this year, the real overhaul won’t start until March 17, 2024. Buckle up, folks, because the bridge will be fully closed for renovations during this time and is expected to reopen in September 2026. So mark your calendars!

What’s Being Fixed?

Now, let’s talk about what exactly is going to happen to our beloved bridge. The renovation will include stripping and repainting the bridge to prevent rust from further deterioration. The timber decking, which has seen better days, will be replaced, and there will be improvements made to electrical wiring. This facelift also includes new lighting and security features, making the bridge not only look fantastic but also keeping it safe for all.

How Will It Affect You?

Here’s where it gets a bit tricky. While the bridge is closed, the city has committed to providing alternative routes for pedestrians and cyclists. This means there will be some temporary adjustments, such as the closure of at least one lane on the Veterans Memorial Bridge. Don’t worry, though! Barriers will be added to help keep everyone safe while you navigate these detours. Plus, the city has worked closely with local partners to ensure that major events won’t feel too much of an impact from the work being done.

Keeping You in the Loop

In case you’re wondering how to stay updated on the project, rest assured that there will be regular updates provided as the renovation progresses. We know how important this bridge is to the community and want to ensure that everyone is informed every step of the way.

A New Chapter for the Walnut Street Bridge

So, Chattanooga, are you as excited as we are? This renovation is a big step toward preserving a vital piece of our city’s history while also ensuring safety for all who use it. We can’t wait to see the transformation unfold over the next few years. Get ready for a beautiful new chapter for the Walnut Street Bridge!