Chattanooga Announces Major Riverfront Redevelopment and Extension of South Shore Closure
Photo by Sarah Swainson on Unsplash
In The Know with Gino…
Chattanooga officials announced that shortly after the reopening of the historic Walnut Street Bridge, the South Shore Riverwalk area will undergo a significant construction phase, leading to a closure expected to last approximately a year and a half. The bridge is set to reopen in late September, providing a much-anticipated connection for pedestrians and visitors.
Starting in November, the South Shore area, including Ross’s Landing Park, will be closed for redevelopment. City representatives revealed plans to collaborate with the popular Head of the Hooch Regatta to relocate the event temporarily to a new floating dock on the river, planned for completion by 2027.
The redevelopment project, described as a “reimagining” of Ross’s Landing Park, includes several enhancements. These include the construction of a new restaurant across Riverfront Parkway from the north end of Chestnut Street, a new café at the entrance to Chattanooga Pier, and a fresh play area at the existing playground site. Additionally, a large mixed-use development will be built at the base of Cameron Hill, extending along Power Alley, Chestnut Street, and beyond the Olgiati Bridge, bringing new retail and residential spaces to the area.
City officials are also awaiting approval for a significant grant from the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC), which will help fund the floating dock system at Coolidge Park. The project includes a 75-foot rowing section, a dedicated fishing pier, and a central kayak launch, along with shoreline stabilization and safety upgrades to the existing boat ramp. The city is also seeking funds from the ARC’s Arise Grant to support improvements along the South Chickamauga Creek Greenway at the Brainerd Levee, which will feature accessible pathways suitable for all users.
The total investment in these projects is approximately $3.58 million, with the city contributing less than $500,000.
Mayor Tim Kelly emphasized that these enhancements align with the city’s broader vision of creating a “City in a Park,” promoting equitable access to natural resources, and boosting outdoor recreation opportunities. The projects are part of the Tennessee Outdoors: Vision 2030 Strategic Plan, designed to maximize water-based activities, eliminate barriers to outdoor spaces, and support the local outdoor economy.
City officials remain optimistic about the upcoming developments, which aim to transform key recreational and commercial areas along Chattanooga’s riverfront, enhancing both accessibility and community engagement.
SOURCE: Chattanoogan
