Walnut Street Bridge renovation set to begin

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- Chattanooga’s iconic Walnut Street Bridge is set to undergo a major reconstruction, with work officially beginning in just one month.

While pre-construction preparations start today, pedestrians will still be able to use the bridge during this phase.

The plan to reconstruct the Walnut Street Bridge was first introduced in 2024, and now, in 2025, it is officially moving forward.

The project is expected to take 18 months, with completion set for September 2026.

Bill Payne, Chattanooga City Engineer, elaborated on the timeline, explaining that while the total renovation period is set for a year and a half, not all of that time will involve major disruptions.

“Final completion would be in mid-September 2026. This would actually be an 18-month total timeline. We know there will be some impact, with about seven months in 2025 dedicated to painting.”

This marks the first major renovation of the bridge in three decades.

City officials say the $35.3 million project will preserve and enhance the historic bridge, ensuring its safety and longevity for years to come.

As with any large-scale project, opinions among Chattanooga residents are divided.

Some are excited to see improvements, while others question the lengthy timeline and potential disruptions.

Dale Schneider, a Chattanooga resident, expressed frustration over the extended construction period.

“I don’t understand why it’s gonna take 18 months—that’s my question,” Schneider said. “I read the article in the paper this morning, but I haven’t seen anything that explains why it would take that long to rebuild the platform. I’m sure there are some structural problems, but I just don’t know.”

For those looking for answers, the City of Chattanooga has launched the Walnut Street Bridge App, which will provide real-time updates throughout the renovation process, including detour routes and progress reports.

Meanwhile, Jose Laboy, a longtime Chattanooga resident, shared a more optimistic outlook.

He discussed how much he values the bridge and the city’s growth over the years.

“I use the bridge often,” Laboy explained. “My parents live in Chattanooga, and I was raised here. The city has changed a lot, and it’s growing beautifully. The community is always thriving, and it’s amazing to see Tennessee—and especially Chattanooga—continue to develop.”

While Laboy admitted that the renovation will stir up emotions for many locals, he believes embracing change is important for the city’s progress.

“There are so many memories on this bridge—first dates, family moments—it means a lot to people,” he continued. “I know it’s going to affect everyone differently, and I’ll miss it too, but in the end, we have to embrace the change.”

Despite some concerns, others are simply excited to see a refreshed and revitalized Walnut Street Bridge.

Kenneth Eugene Behl, another Chattanooga resident, kept his outlook simple and enthusiastic.

“It’ll be worth it. 18 months, and it’ll be brand new, baby!”

With renovations officially kicking off, the coming months will bring both challenges and anticipation.

While the historic bridge undergoes its most significant transformation in 30 years, the city remains committed to keeping residents informed and engaged throughout the process.