Chattanooga, Tennessee, October 14, 2025
News Summary
A section of the Tennessee Riverpark, the Riverpark Walking Bridge, will close for approximately six months starting October 20 for essential repairs. This closure impacts outdoor activities for residents and visitors, who often use the route for walking, jogging, and cycling. The decision comes after a structural assessment, and the local government has secured funding for the repairs. With no official detour route available, alternative navigation plans are encouraged for those affected by the closure.
Chattanooga, Tennessee – A section of the Tennessee Riverpark known as the Riverpark Walking Bridge is set to close for approximately six months starting on October 20 for essential repairs following a structural assessment by a licensed engineer. The boardwalk is distinct from the Walnut Street Bridge and spans an important route that connects the Riverpark Rowing Center near the Citico pump station to the UTC Scrappy Moore practice fields.
Signs announcing the closure were installed on September 29, offering pedestrians and cyclists a three-week notice period ahead of the impending work. This closure is significant as it affects outdoor activities for residents and visitors alike, who frequent the area for walking, jogging, and cycling.
Unlike a partial closure, which was deemed infeasible due to the bridge’s location over marshland, the repair work will involve taking the walkway down to its studs. This in-depth reconstruction is necessary to ensure the safety and integrity of the bridge.
Funding for the repairs has been secured by Hamilton County through a county commission resolution, which highlights the local government’s commitment to maintaining public infrastructure. However, it is worth noting that there is no officially designated detour route for pedestrians and bikers during the closure, which may lead to complications for those who frequently utilize this route.
Furthermore, other portions of the Riverwalk are also experiencing closures, extending until April, due to ongoing construction related to Erlanger Park. This construction, which began in July, affects the area from Chestnut Street Crossing to the Wheland Foundry Trailhead parking lot. Improvements being made as part of this project include a wider, 16-foot sidewalk, enhanced lighting, and new landscaping aimed at bettering the experience for trail-goers.
Concerns have been raised by members of the community regarding the impact of these closures and changes on pedestrian traffic. The combined effect of the Riverpark Walking Bridge closure and construction in Erlanger Park could lead to reduced accessibility and enjoyment of the scenic areas along the Tennessee Riverpark.
Closure Details
- Closure Start Date: October 20
- Estimated Duration: Six months
- Area Affected: Riverpark Walking Bridge
- Route Affected: From Riverpark Rowing Center to UTC Scrappy Moore practice fields
- Funding Source: Hamilton County
- Construction Start: July (Erlanger Park Improvements)
- Expected Closure for Other Areas: Until April
Impact on Local Community
As the Riverpark Walking Bridge closure approaches, residents and visitors are encouraged to plan alternative routes. With the absence of an official detour, many may need to seek other means to navigate the area. The planned improvements in Erlanger Park, while beneficial in the long term, are compounding the immediate disruption for walkers and bikers in the region.
Conclusion
This closure marks a pivotal moment for the Tennessee Riverpark infrastructure, emphasizing the need for maintenance and upgrades to ensure safety and enhance recreational spaces. Local authorities will continue to provide updates as the work progresses.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
When is the Riverpark Walking Bridge closing?
The closure begins on October 20.
-
How long will the bridge be closed?
The closure is estimated to last six months.
-
What work will be done on the bridge?
The repair work will involve taking the walkway down to its studs.
-
Is there a detour route during the closure?
There is no official detour route designated for pedestrians and bikers during the closure.
-
What areas are also closed until April?
Other portions of the Riverwalk are closed until April, due to ongoing construction related to Erlanger Park.
Key Features of the Riverpark Walking Bridge Closure
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Closure Start Date | October 20 |
| Estimated Duration | Six months |
| Location | Riverpark Walking Bridge |
| Affected Route | From Riverpark Rowing Center to UTC Scrappy Moore practice fields |
| Funding | Hamilton County secured funding |
| Other Closures | Other portions of the Riverwalk closed until April |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Chattanooga Hosts Diverse Weekend Events
Chattanooga’s Walnut Street Bridge Closes for Renovation
Additional Resources
- Local 3 News: Tennessee Riverwalk Closure
- WRCB TV: Scenic City Staple Closing
- Times Free Press: Things to Do in Chattanooga
- Times Free Press: Walnut Street Bridge Makeover
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tennessee Riverwalk
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
