Chattanooga, Tennessee is taking proactive steps to keep residents and visitors informed about the upcoming major renovation of the iconic Walnut Street Bridge. The City of Chattanooga has officially launched a dedicated Walnut Street Bridge app, available now on the Apple App Store and coming soon to Android platforms. Alongside the app, a free text alert service has also been introduced to provide real-time updates throughout the bridge’s extensive 18-month renovation, the first major overhaul in three decades.
This initiative, featuring both the Walnut Street Bridge App and the complimentary text alert system, is designed to ensure the community remains well-informed and can easily navigate the changes during the renovation period. The app offers users a range of valuable information including:
- Detailed Detour Routes and Real-Time Construction Updates: Stay ahead of closures and plan your routes with up-to-the-minute information on detours and construction progress.
- Temporary Art Installation Information: Discover details about the vibrant temporary art installations planned along alternative routes, adding an element of cultural interest to necessary detours.
- Exclusive Local Merchant Deals: Access special offers and promotions from North Shore businesses, facilitated through a partnership between the City and the North Shore Merchants Collective, encouraging support for local commerce during the project.
- General Chattanooga Information: Explore a wealth of information about Chattanooga and its various attractions, perfect for both residents and tourists seeking to discover more about the city.
For those preferring text updates, the free alert service delivers timely notifications directly to mobile devices. To subscribe, simply text “WSB” to 423-249-9181. This service ensures that everyone, even without the app, can stay informed as the renovation advances.
The Walnut Street Bridge Renovation project is scheduled to commence on March 17, 2025, following pre-construction preparations starting February 17, 2025. Initially, pre-construction will involve setting up fencing and installing platforms beneath the bridge, during which time the bridge will remain open to pedestrian and cyclist traffic. However, a full closure of the Walnut Street Bridge will be implemented starting March 17th to facilitate the major works.
This significant $35.3 million investment in Chattanooga’s infrastructure will see comprehensive improvements to the historic Walnut Street Bridge over the 18-month construction period. The renovation will focus on critical enhancements including the complete stripping and repainting of the bridge structure to combat rust and significantly extend its structural integrity and lifespan. Additionally, the project will replace the current aging timber decking, upgrade the electrical wiring to accommodate modern lighting fixtures and advanced security systems, and undertake essential structural repairs to ensure the bridge’s continued safety and functionality for future generations.
[Imagine an image here: “ – alt text: Aerial view of the Walnut Street Bridge in Chattanooga at sunset, showcasing its pedestrian walkway and the city skyline.]
To minimize disruption for pedestrians and cyclists, the City has designated the Veterans Memorial Bridge as the official alternative route during the Walnut Street Bridge closure. This alternative pathway will be enhanced with lane adjustments and protective barriers to ensure safety for users. Adding to the detour experience, artist Ebony Bolt is creating vibrant artwork along the Veterans Memorial Bridge route, celebrating Chattanooga’s rich and diverse heritage. Furthermore, a new mural will be commissioned on the south side of the Veterans Memorial Bridge near Riverside Drive, providing engaging visual diversions for those using the alternative route.
[Imagine an image here: “ – alt text: Art installation along the Veterans Memorial Bridge detour route in Chattanooga, designed by Ebony Bolt, celebrating local heritage.]
Funding for this essential project is secured through a combination of federal and local resources, highlighting the collaborative effort to preserve this landmark. Federal resources contribute $18.8 million, with an additional $16 million sourced from the city’s Hotel-Motel Tax and Economic Development funds. The City of Chattanooga has also been actively collaborating with local stakeholders and event organizers to strategically minimize any potential disruptions to major events within the city throughout the duration of the construction.
For complete details about the project and to stay constantly updated, residents and visitors are encouraged to download the Walnut Street Bridge App from the Apple App Store, with Android availability on the horizon. Subscribing to the free text alert service by texting “WSB” to 423-249-9181 is another excellent way to receive immediate notifications and project milestones directly. These resources will ensure everyone can remain informed and prepared as Chattanooga invests in the preservation and enhancement of the beloved Walnut Street Bridge.
