Alton Park Connector Trail Moves Forward, Linking Chattanooga Neighborhoods
Photo by Thomas Konings on Unsplash
Chattamatters NOW
The Alton Park Connector Trail Project is making significant strides toward its goal of linking South Chattanooga to the Tennessee Riverwalk, marking a milestone after more than two decades of planning and community efforts.
In December, the Trust for Public Land (TPL) and the City of Chattanooga officially broke ground on the first phase of the connector in St. Elmo. The initiative aims to create a 2.6-mile trail system that will connect the Alton Park neighborhood with downtown Chattanooga and the scenic Riverwalk, enhancing accessibility and promoting outdoor activity.
The project faced a setback when the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) decided not to proceed with a $20 million grant intended to extend the connector to East Lake Park. In response, TPL partnered with the Brentwood Foundation and other local organizations to continue advancing the project independently.
Officials and community members see the connector as a vital infrastructure development. Noel Durant, Tennessee State Director for TPL, highlighted its significance as a foundation for regional growth and community investment, underscoring the positive impact it could have on residents when speaking with Chattamatters. Listen below!
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SOURCES: Chattamatters & News Channel 9
