Chattanooga, TN, August 31, 2025
News Summary
The Broad Street redesign project in downtown Chattanooga is paused due to a significant funding shortage in the city’s capital budget. Mayor Tim Kelly confirmed that while community input has shaped three potential designs aiming for a pedestrian-friendly environment, ongoing financial demands for other projects have taken precedence. A federal funding of $3.5 million secured in 2024 adds a layer of complexity in terms of compliance with federal regulations. The total cost of the redesign remains unclear, with no taxpayer money currently allocated.
Chattanooga, TN – The Broad Street redesign project in downtown Chattanooga is currently on hold due to a significant funding shortage in the city’s capital budget, as confirmed by Mayor Tim Kelly. The initiative, which has been in development since 2022, aims to transform a seven-block stretch from the Tennessee Aquarium to M.L. King Boulevard into a more pedestrian-friendly area.
Feedback from over 1,000 community members and the engagement of around 180 participants in an in-person design session have guided the project, leading to the creation of three potential designs. However, Mayor Kelly indicated the project is “definitely on pause” as it competes with rising financial demands and priorities, such as the Montague Park redesign, which focuses on sculpture fields and new soccer facilities.
The riverfront area is also set to receive a significant $15 million investment from the state, adding to the city’s budget pressures. Mayor Kelly stated that if a future budget surplus occurs, there may be a possibility to allocate some funds to resume the Broad Street project. Meanwhile, Emily Mack, president of River City Co. overseeing the project, emphasized the need to explore various funding sources, including potential private investments, to kickstart the initiative.
In 2024, Congressman Chuck Fleischmann secured $3.5 million in federal funding for the project. However, this funding has introduced additional complexity regarding compliance with federal and environmental regulations. Despite these challenges, specific designs unveiled in 2023 propose reducing car traffic to one lane in each direction along Broad Street, aiming to create a safer, greener, and more welcoming urban space.
The total cost of the Broad Street redesign remains unclear, particularly as costs have increased since the initial proposal. As of now, no taxpayer money has been allocated toward the project. River City Co. plans to develop full-scale engineering drawings from the initial schematic designs, which is anticipated to take 12 to 18 months to complete.
Community input has been pivotal in shaping the project, with urban planner Victor Dover highlighting a majority desire for less car-centric spaces and a greater emphasis on pedestrian-friendly environments. An urbanist advocate suggested the city conduct practical tests, such as temporarily closing the street for events, to gauge community preferences for future designs.
Concerns about dwindling vitality in downtown Chattanooga have also been raised, with closed buildings and an abundance of parking lots noted as potentially detrimental to the urban atmosphere. Despite these challenges, all proposed redesigns have received positive feedback for their focus on enhancing proximity between pedestrians and local businesses.
Along Broad Street, recent developments include the new Embassy Suites and ongoing renovations of the historic Tivoli Theatre. Additionally, a Hilton hotel and the Mast General Store are expected to open in 2027, highlighting a period of growth and investment in the downtown area.
Key Aspects of the Broad Street Redesign
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Status | On hold due to funding shortages |
| Primary Goal | Transform Broad Street into a pedestrian-friendly area |
| Community Feedback | Over 1,000 responses and 180 in-person participants |
| Proposed Designs | Three designs reducing car traffic |
| Funding Secured | $3.5 million from federal funds |
| Estimated Project Timeline | 12-18 months for engineering drawings |
FAQ
What is the main objective of the Broad Street redesign?
The primary goal is to create a more pedestrian-friendly space along Broad Street.
What has caused the delay in the project?
A lack of funding in the city’s capital budget has led to the project being on hold.
How has the community been involved in the project?
Feedback has been gathered from more than 1,000 residents, along with an in-person design session involving around 180 participants.
What is the total estimated cost of the project?
The total cost is uncertain as costs have risen since the project’s inception.
What other projects are currently taking precedence over Broad Street’s redesign?
Montague Park’s redesign and significant investments in the riverfront area are currently higher priorities.
Are there any federal funds allocated to the project?
Yes, Congressman Chuck Fleischmann secured $3.5 million in federal funding for the project.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Hamilton County School District Unveils $32 Million Facility Improvement Plan
Chattanooga Launches Upgraded CHA 311 App for Service Requests
Chattanooga’s Downtown Riverfront Transformation
Additional Resources
- Times Free Press – Broad Street Redesign Pause
- Local 3 News – Man Shot on Broad St.
- Chattanoogan – Mixed-Use Development for Broad St.
- WDEF – Big Plans for South Broad
- News Channel 9 – Man Dies from Parking Garage Fall
- Wikipedia: Chattanooga
- Google Search: Chattanooga Broad Street redesign
- Google Scholar: Chattanooga urban planning
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Chattanooga
- Google News: Chattanooga Broad Street redesign
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
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