Thank you for the recent update on the riverbank stabilization project which is overdue and quite necessary. The story lists many uses and functions of the park but fails to mention one of its primary roles.
The entire lower park is a combination of natural and engineered wetland which is vital to North Chattanooga for its ability to absorb high rainfall runoff which incidentally inhibits riverbank erosion at the mouth of the North Market Branch stream. It also serves as a backwater to absorb river flooding.
As you point out, it is maintained more "in a natural state" which also leads to a diversity of flora and makes it a habitat for a multitude of bird species as well as bees, butterflies and small mammals like rabbits.
Renaissance Park is part playground and well utilized in that regard, but it is one of our least appreciated and least understood natural features.
John C Reis
North Chattanooga