Don't Cut Off St. Elmo

  • Tuesday, July 8, 2025
The Riverwalk is one of Chattanooga’s crown jewels, and as a frequent user, I’m excited about the planned improvements to the South Broad section. These upgrades will undoubtedly enhance an already vibrant part of our city.

However, I have serious concerns about the current planning. As of now, there is no detour planned during the closure, which will effectively cut off St. Elmo from the rest of the city for nearly a year.

For many residents in St.
Elmo and the South Broad area, the Riverwalk is more than a recreational amenity, it’s a necessity. We rely on it not only for exercise and wellness, but also as a critical commuting route. The city’s decision to move forward without a safe, protected detour is both disappointing and difficult to understand.

Past closures on the Riverwalk were accompanied by temporary alternatives, such as the protected detour along Riverfront Parkway, South 20th, and Broad Street. There’s also an active detour in place around the Walnut Street Bridge via Veterans Bridge and Manufacturers Road. Why is the closure on South Broad any different?

Anyone familiar with Broad Street knows it cannot safely support increased bike and pedestrian traffic at its current vehicle volume. Without a safe detour, the city is putting lives at risk.

Calling Chattanooga a “City in a Park” is easy. Living up to that vision requires commitment and care. I urge the city to reconsider its approach and provide a safe alternative route before someone gets seriously hurt.

Thanks, 
Walker Rhodes
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