The City of Chattanooga is making improvements in the Miller Park District, which includes the new Miller Park and completely renovating MLK Boulevard between the park and Miller Plaza. On Monday, Nov. 13, crews will begin the phase that includes the renovation of MLK Boulevard and requires a full closure of the road to complete this portion.
The construction of MLK Boulevard includes replacing the asphalt with patterned pavers, adding a tree-lined median, and other visual representations that will guide people from Miller Plaza to Miller Park. The design will maintain the same number of through lanes and left turn lanes but will shorten the pedestrian crossing distance at Market Street, enhancing safety. The new MLK Boulevard will expand space for cherished events such as Nightfall, while maintaining functionality for vehicular traffic through the heart of downtown Chattanooga.
Once complete, the new section of MLK Boulevard will be a gateway to an important corridor in Chattanooga, that’s experiencing revitalization with new businesses emerging. During Nightfall, the street will be a unique place where people will gather together as they go between the park and plaza, listening to incredible music.
Timeline:
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Nov. 13 - Full closure of MLK Boulevard between Miller Plaza & Miller Park
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Mid-February 2018 - MLK Boulevard reopens (closure expected to last 100 days)
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Mid-February to Mid-March 2018 - Full closure of Georgia Avenue between MLK Boulevard & Patten Parkway
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Summer 2018 - New Miller Park Opens
Detours
The Chattanooga Department of Transportation (CDOT) has developed a detour plan to minimize the impact to traffic and businesses. Maps and details are available online at http://www.chattanooga.gov/transportation/traffic-engineering-a-operations/special-events-a-street-closures/transportation-project-updates. Posted detour signs will guide drivers around construction.
Discounts and Alternative Transportation
People who live or work downtown are encouraged to move around using CARTA’s free electric shuttle or by walking or biking. In an effort to ease commute times, CARTA will offer a preloaded flex pass with six trips for its fixed route services, a free membership to Green Commuter Car share (a $25 value) and $35 worth of ride credits. Through the CARTA Go program, they will also offer a $15 monthly discount to park in the CARTA North Garage through February 2018. Anyone interested should call the Chattanooga Parking Authority at (423) 648-4031 to sign up. Bike Chattanooga will provide annual memberships at half off for $25. For details about this offer, contact CDOT at (423) 643-6156.
For more information, visit http://www.chattanooga.gov/transportation/traffic-engineering-a-operations/special-events-a-street-closures/transportation-project-updates.