Chattanooga seeks public input for the future of recreation

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Public input is essential as the City of Chattanooga looks to shape the next generation of parks, programs, and recreational spaces.

City leaders are inviting residents to share their ideas to help create a 20-year plan that reflects the community’s needs and dreams.

Jayne Miller, Principal at PROS Consulting, expressed the importance of listening to the people who use these spaces:

“We have eight stations where people can give us their input — what they like about all the programs the City of Chattanooga provides for recreation, what they like about the facilities, as well as how they would like to see their money spent on recreation programs and facilities.”

Whether you’re passionate about outdoor green spaces or prefer indoor activities, city officials explained that your voice matters.

They want to know what improvements and new features would make a difference to you and your family.

Greta Hayes, Director of Recreation for Chattanooga Parks and Outdoors, elaborated on the project’s long-term vision:

“This is going to be like a 20-year plan. So we want your kids here. We want to hear what they want, what’s exciting to them — whether it’s outdoor recreation experiences like hiking, biking, rock climbing, or traditional sports. I want them to have that input because that’s going to be our guide for the future.”

Community members have already voiced both praise and concerns.

Sunshine Loveless, a local resident, expressed appreciation for the city’s efforts, particularly in inclusive recreation:

“I’m also very familiar with Therapeutic Recreation Services and the services they provide to the community, especially those with physical and cognitive disabilities. Those, I think, are being knocked out of the park.”

However, others, like Jamie Wallis, explained that there’s still room to grow:

“I think that we rely heavily on being an outdoor city and I think that’s how we advertise ourselves, but I do think we’re lacking in some outdoor activities and parks that could represent everything Chattanooga has to offer.”

As Greta Hayes emphasized, the process must include the people it’s meant to serve:

“It is really, really important. If we do it on our own, we’re not serving the public the way we should. So doing this and having multiple ways where we can hear from the public is foundational to developing a plan that’s going to serve the residents of Chattanooga.”

The city invites you to take part in upcoming public input sessions:

Monday, June 2nd

• Warner Park Frost Stadium | 1 PM – 3 PM | 1100 McCallie Ave

• Greenway Farm Conference Center | 5 PM – 7 PM | 4960 Gann Store Rd, Hixson

Tuesday, June 3rd

• Glenwood Community Center | 10 AM – 12 PM | 2610 East 3rd Street

• Shepherd Community Center | 5 PM – 7 PM | 2124 Shepherd Rd

Free snacks and drinks provided while supplies last!

A city isn’t just built by leagues and programs — it’s built by people. Chattanooga wants to hear from you to help create a future that reflects the heart of the community.