FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
01
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.
02
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.
03
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.
04
Why does the renovation cost so much?
Our ongoing renovation project is moving forward with a focus on safety, accessibility, and long-term durability. As construction progressed and we removed the old decking, our engineers discovered that several internal wood and steel support beams were in worse condition than originally anticipated. To address this, we have shifted our focus to a full replacement of these structural components and are conducting specialized strength testing on the floor beams over the water to ensure the entire foundation is rock-solid.
In addition to these critical repairs, we are making the area more welcoming and secure for everyone. This includes building five new ADA-compliant crosswalks for smoother mobility, repairing damaged handrails, and upgrading our lighting with waterproof covers and higher placements to prevent vandalism. We are also enhancing the visitor experience by installing fifteen pet waste stations, ten educational signs, and twelve replica "Sun Medallions" that honor the original historic design of the structure.
To keep the project moving efficiently without unnecessary costs, we have carefully optimized our plan. By removing several lower-priority tasks and utility painting items, we were able to redirect those resources toward these essential structural upgrades. This balanced approach allows us to prioritize the most urgent safety needs while still delivering a beautiful, functional space for the community.
05
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].
06
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.
07
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.
08
What will happen to the plaques with names along the bridge?
The plaques will be pulled up, kept in a safe place, and returned in the new wood before completion of the bridge renovation.
09
When will the bridge open and what to expect?
The project is on schedule to open at the end of September 2026 to great fanfare. Keep your fingers crossed for a parade! Please follow Chattanooga Parks and Outdoors on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates on events in and around Coolidge Park and the bridge. September will be here before you know it.