CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- The last few weeks have been challenging for us as leaders and citizens to figure out how to make downtown Chattanooga safer.
In the wake of Chris Wright’s murder late last month and subsequent public safety actions by the city of Chattanooga and Hamilton County, many are wondering what the next steps are for the future of downtown Chattanooga.
This was the focus of a conversation Eric Myers, executive director of architecture firm Chattanooga Design Studio, had at the studio’s City Celebration event.
Myers is one of the lead architects behind major projects such as the Montague Park renovation and is part of the One Westside project.
Myers believes downtown Chattanooga’s problems stem from two main issues. The coronavirus pandemic and resulting remote work has driven businesses away from downtown Chattanooga.
He said, “What happens with both of these effects is that certain areas of public space become less populated and the way those spaces are used becomes a little more marginalized or underutilized. What we’re experiencing on a daily basis is that some spaces downtown are quite unsafe or feel unsafe…What’s happened recently is that it’s very isolated. I believe Mayor Kelly’s words are true. ”
He says a focus on bringing in new business along with infrastructure projects is an important way to tackle this ongoing issue.
Myers says, “Having lots of people around you can make you feel safe. It also provides a connection between seeing and being seen, and safe comforts like shade and lighting.”
Myers participated in a presentation on the progress of the Montague Park renovation at Chattanooga City Council on Tuesday.
During the presentation, it was revealed that the project could cost around $80 million.
Myers says this may seem like a big deal, but it’s worth it for Chattanooga’s future.
“Tom Lee River Park in Memphis was recently approved for the same amount,” Myers said. much the same as the importance of gender, need and location in the city.”
He said funding would come from a variety of sources, not just local dollars.
He also said the Chattanooga Design Studio will continue to hold public meetings about progress on One Westside and Montague Park in the coming months.