KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The Knoxville community came out Thursday to hear the planning process on the South Waterfront Pedestrian Bridge. Knoxville Chamber hosted the event with Knoxville leaders to share about the pedestrian bridge proposal, planning and its partnerships.
Rebekah Jane "RJ" Justice, Knoxville's Chief of Urban Design and Development, said the topics discussed during the session included how the bridge would "complement Knoxville's growth and existing infrastructure system and how it can be a catalyst for change."
"A pedestrian bridge provides a unique experience for people to enjoy recreation," Justice said. "It's safe—it's separate from cars. So, it could be an iconic opportunity for Knoxville, not just for a residential experience but also for economic growth."
Justice also emphasized why it's important for Knoxville to have a pedestrian bridge.
"Offering multiple ways of transportation can be beneficial," Justice said. "[It] helps alleviate traffic congestion [and] provide opportunity for economic growth and public health."
The chief said the city is putting together funding opportunities for the bridge. Knoxville has applied for a federal RAISE grant, totaling $25 million. The city is expected to learn if they are awarded this money this summer.
In September 2023, the project experienced significant advancement when the city accepted $20 million in Tennessee Department of Transportation funds specifically earmarked for building the bridge.
Justice emphasized the need for community members' involvement in this process.
"These are the places the people in Knoxville live, work and play and we want to ensure that we are planning and growing with the community," she said.
Paul Laudeman, an avid biker and walker, has lived in Knoxville since 1980. Laudeman came to Tennessee to attend UT and owns a few properties on Scottish Pike.
Laudmen said he's followed the bridge plan and favors the development. However, he said he wants city leaders to have a futuristic vision for the bridge, like how it will impact traffic.
"They talked about how we're going to make the connectivity better—that's kind of thin," Laudeman said. "I've been here since the 80s and we, the community members, said 'That single-lane underpass? Do something about it.' Connecting Hawthorne [Avenue], which is going up a steep hill to a four-lane highway—that's a nightmare. The planners need to look at this better and figure that that's what they're paying for."
Laudemen also believes that UT should fund most of the project since the bridge will connect to the university.
If you would like to give feedback as the pedestrian bridge development continues, Justice said the city will have several public engagement opportunities in the summer and fall. She said you can also visit the city of Knoxville's website.