Bridge Success Story: Walnut Street Bridge in Chattanooga, TN

The MKT Bridge in Boonville has incredible potential for contributing to economic health and the recreational options of the central Missouri region.  A gentleman from Chattanooga Tennessee wanted to share details of a similar situation, in the following email that I received:

Walnut St Bridge, Chattanooga

I recently became aware of the issue surrounding the Katy Trail while doing some research for a bike trip this summer.  I took a few minutes to send an email to the Governor as suggested.  I wanted to offer what can happen when the path of restoration is chosen.  I live in the Chattanooga, Tennessee area where we were faced with a similar issue several years ago.  The Walnut Street Bridge had been closed to automobile traffic for many years and had fallen into disrepair.  It too was slated to be torn down but a local citizens group became involved with an effort to save the bridge.  The renovation of this 113-year old historic bridge as a linear pedestrian park was completed in May 1993.  It is the oldest and largest surviving truss bridge in the South and was the first multi-use structure to span the 652-mile Tennessee River.  The Walnut Street Bridge was condemned and slated for demolition when local citizens convinced the City of Chattanooga to commit the funds earmarked for the bridge’s demolition to its restoration, providing the balance of the renovation cost could be raised.

To make a long story short, they ultimately were successful and the restored Walnut Street Bridge is now a center point in a revitalization effort underway along the riverfront.  An area that was home to abandoned business and decay is now thriving.  The bridge anchors an arts district on the south side of the river to a municipal park on the north side of the river and is part of a riverfront trail system that follows the south shore of the Tennessee river.  The Walnut Street Bridge continues to be one of Chattanooga’s most visited attractions, and provides a gathering place for residents and visitors to enjoy events, entertainment and recreation.  It serves as the pedestrian link between downtown Chattanooga and the now thriving Northshore District.  The restored Walnut Street Bridge now serves as an icon for a community undergoing a renaissance along its river.

I don't think anyone could have imagined the development or growth that has taken place since the restoration of the bridge was completed and I can't help but believe that the restoration of the Katy Bridge in Boonville could have similar benefits for the community.  I have included several pictures of the restored Walnut Street Bridge. As you view them, keep in mind that this was an industrial area that had been in decline for the past decade.

Sincerely,
Del Sudkamp
Instrument Engineer

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Thanks Del for letting me share this great success story with BikeKatyTrail.com website visitors.  The Walnut Street Bridge looks fantastic, and I hope to have an opportunity to visit it someday.