The Chattanooga Parks & Outdoors Department + River City Co. recently debuted three concepts for “Evolving Our Riverfront Parks.”
The concepts are the next phase of the ONE Riverfront plan, which outlines eight strategies “to create a place for all Chattanoogans to enjoy, strengthen connectivity to the riverfront, develop a great sense of place + to activate the riverfront.”
The design + activation concepts presented are titled “Porch,” “River,” and “Ecotones.”
Porch
The riverfront “porch” will serve as a four-acre activated linear park, creating a central gathering space to encourage community interactions while overlooking the Tennessee River.
Key ideas: a wooden deck and benches, a beer garden, sports under the bridge, picnic facilities, veterans memorial garden, a raised pedestrian bridge, shady groves, improved water access + multi-scale vendor spaces.
River
Focus on “dual-programmed rooms,” incorporating active programming + ecological experiences to provide more intimate connections to Chattanooga’s riverfront.
Key ideas: a river boardwalk, overlook of wetland spaces, restorative landscape, natural dog park, riverside beer garden, enhanced crosswalks, waterfront bar and bites, hillside natural place, increased canopy + improved water access.
Ecotones
Think: An ode to the Chattanooga ecoregion. Will focus on the diverse ecological zones + connection to the local ecology.
Key ideas: frames the Chattanooga Green with trees, opportunities for respite, a craggy shelf (a rocky beach-type area), natural play, forest trails, improved water access, a riverfront beach, a shaded pavilion + activity fields.
“The concepts presented for ‘Evolving Our Riverfront Parks’ is to build upon the legacy and design of the 21st Century Waterfront. It is not meant to be a complete redesign but instead enhance the great assets we have along with providing unique experiences, comfortable areas, and a place to make memories for our residents and visitors.” — River City Co. President + CEO Emily Mack
Want to weigh in on the presented concepts? River City Co. has launched a short survey where folks will be available to provide feedback now through Sunday, Aug. 6.