It’s officially September, which means the Walnut Street Bridge is set to be completed this month after a year and a half of renovations. That’s right — you’ll soon be able to walk, run, and bike across Chattanooga’s iconic pedestrian bridge once again.

The bulk of the massive, 18-month restoration project is done, with crews now focused on installing benches, trash cans, planters, dog waste stations, and signage. Restoration work under the bridge is also happening now, including fresh sod and new landscaping.

A collection of plastic covered benches on a bridge. — Benches covered in plastic never looked so good. | Photo via Chattanooga Parks & Outdoors

The biggest upgrades included replacing more than 200,000 pounds of steel, sandblasting and painting, installing new wood decking, upgrading the electrical system, and adding LED lights. The bridge’s last major restoration was in the early 1990s — so it was due for some TLC.

City officials still haven’t released an official reopening date, but we’ll share it as soon as we know. We’re just as excited as you are.