How Chattanooga plans to improve downtown parking

The city has launched a multi-phase initiative to make parking easier for residents + travelers when enjoying the downtown area.

CARTA bus on Market Street in downtown Chattanooga (Photo: Staff).

Don’t let parking keep you away from the downtown area.

Photo by NOOGAtoday

Something we hear from our readers all the time? “I would go downtown if there was more parking.”

Well, folks, fuel up those cars — the City of Chattanooga, in partnership with CARTA + private lot owners, is launching an improvement plan specifically for downtown parking.

The first part of this multi-phase effort will introduce the NorthShore Express Shuttle, a new park-n-ride that aims to minimize travel disruptions during the 18-month-long closure of the Walnut Street Bridge — which will begin Monday, March 17.

Here are some pro tips on navigating this free shuttle:

  • Shuttle Park North parking (3rd Street) — first hour is free, with fees up to $12 for over three hours
  • Shuttle Park NorthShore parking (behind Shell station on Frazier Avenue) is $10 for over three hours
  • Download Transit for real-time transportation updates
  • Download PBSC to locate a bike station + see availability

Other parts of the initiative include better signage, upgraded technologies, easier payment options + teaming up with local lots and businesses to offer parking credits.

Bonus: See more downtown parking areas.

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