FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why does the bridge need renovation?

The city of Chattanooga is working to address safety and structural items along the Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge. Correcting these items also provides an opportunity to freshen paint and lighting. The project includes structural steel repairs, repainting, new decking, new electrical, and new lighting.

Will I be able to use the Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge during the renovations?

Bridge users will not be able to cross the bridge entirely during the renovation while the contractor performs the work. However, users will be able to access certain parts of the bridge before or after renovations begin on those sections.

Are there any alternative routes or bridges that I can use during the closure?

While the Walnut Street Bridge renovations are completed, the city will use the Market Street Bridge as a temporary detour route for pedestrian travel across the Tennessee River. This is the shortest route.

A secondary detour will also be available using the Veterans Bridge.

Is there a website or contact number where I can get the latest updates and information regarding the bridge closure?

Will the project affect any upcoming events or festivals in the city?

There are several events that use the bridge. The contractor will halt work and make the bridge crossable for these iconic events, to include the following:

Chattanooga Marathon [March], Ironman 70.3[May], Riverbend and Riverbend Run [May], Chattanooga Waterfront Triathlon [June], Moon River Festival [September], Ironman [September], 7 Bridges Marathon [October], and Head of the Hooch [November].

What are the city’s plans for communicating about the bridge project to the public and tourists?

The City of Chattanooga is committed to maintaining the most effective communication with our residents, business stakeholders, commuters, media outlets, emergency services, and the general population. Community members can receive project updates by texting the keyword “WSB” to 1-423-249-9181 or sign up on our website at walnutstreetbridge.com. The city will also post timely updates to inform the public on social media, the city’s mobile app, and in print, with additional help from media outlets and public text notifications throughout the duration of construction.

Will there be signage directing pedestrians to alternative routes and bridges?

Yes. The detour route will begin at the entry to the Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge, on the south side of the river. The city will provide signage directing pedestrians to travel west on East 1st Street for two blocks to Market Street.

A second route will be available across the Veterans Bridge.

Will there be signage directing pedestrians to alternative routes and bridges?

We are planning to have merchant/business owner meetings once each month.

How can businesses stay updated with the latest information and developments regarding the bridge project?

The community can receive project updates by texting the keyword “WSB” to 1-423-249-9181 or sign up on our website at walnutstreetbridge.com. The city will also post timely updates to inform the public on social media, the city’s mobile app, and in print, with additional help from media outlets and public text notifications throughout the duration of construction.