Tennessee Riverwalk Section Reopens After Renovations

Upgrades include new lighting, landscaping, and expanded parking at West 26th Street trailhead.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:51pm

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph of people walking along a riverfront path, with the scene rendered in soft, hazy pools of warm light and color, creating a dreamlike, atmospheric mood.The reopened Tennessee Riverwalk in Chattanooga offers a serene, nature-filled escape for locals and visitors alike.Chattanooga Today

The Tennessee Riverwalk and West 26th Street trailhead outside Erlanger Park in Chattanooga have reopened after months of construction. The city added new lighting and landscaping along the riverwalk, using native trees and recycled materials from nearby sites. Public parking at the trailhead has also been increased from 9 to 26 spots.

Why it matters

The Tennessee Riverwalk is a popular outdoor recreation area that connects to Erlanger Park, providing residents and visitors access to the riverfront. The renovations aim to enhance the user experience and accessibility of this community asset.

The details

Crews have added new lighting and landscaping along the riverwalk, including native trees and reused materials from the U.S. Pipe and Wheland Foundry site. Construction has also increased public parking at the West 26th Street trailhead, expanding available spots from 9 to 26.

  • The riverwalk section around Chestnut Street closed in July for construction.
  • The Tennessee Riverwalk and West 26th Street trailhead reopened on Monday, April 13, 2026.

The players

City of Chattanooga

The local government that oversaw the Tennessee Riverwalk renovation project.

Erlanger Park

A public park in Chattanooga that is connected to the Tennessee Riverwalk.

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What’s next

The newly renovated Tennessee Riverwalk and trailhead will be open to the public, providing improved access to outdoor recreation and the riverfront.

The takeaway

The Tennessee Riverwalk renovations demonstrate Chattanooga's commitment to enhancing its public spaces and infrastructure, making the city more livable and attractive for residents and visitors alike.