A Culture of Outdoor Activity
Chattanooga’s natural beauty and outdoor spaces are integral to its identity, offering physical, emotional, and social benefits to all who experience them. However, access to these green spaces faces mounting challenges, threatening the health and well-being of the community.
Charter Team Leadership
Key Threats:
- Urban Development and Reduced Green Space
The city’s growth places pressure on undeveloped lands, leading to the loss of green spaces as housing, businesses, and infrastructure expand. This shrinking availability of natural areas limits easy access to outdoor spaces, particularly for residents in urbanized neighborhoods. - Environmental Degradation
Pollution in Chattanooga’s waterways, erosion from increased foot traffic, and invasive species all pose risks to the city’s ecosystems. Degraded outdoor areas become less appealing, impacting residents’ enjoyment and reducing the natural benefits they offer. - Economic and Social Inequities in Access
Not all neighborhoods have equal access to green spaces. Residents in lower-income or underserved areas often have fewer recreational options nearby, making it harder for them to enjoy nature’s physical and mental health benefits. - Overuse and Insufficient Maintenance
Popular trails, parks, and recreation areas require upkeep. Insufficient funding for maintenance can result in overcrowded, unsafe, or poorly maintained spaces, reducing their appeal and usability. - Tourism
With a local culture that tends to be less active, many of our parks and trails are primarily enjoyed by tourists, either independently or through various fantastic events. This frequent use contributes to wear and tear on these natural resources, which are currently maintained largely by volunteers, non-profits, and grant funding. One potential solution could involve exploring ways to redirect some of the tourism dollars back into the upkeep of these spaces, ensuring that the resources attracting visitors are sustainably supported.
Our Solution:Embed outdoor recreation in every neighborhood for all to enjoy physical, emotional, and social benefits. This commitment focuses on:
- Expanding Green Spaces in underserved neighborhoods to ensure all residents are near nature.
- Creating Inclusive Programs that make outdoor activities accessible for people of all backgrounds.
- Investing in Sustainable Maintenance to protect parks and trails for future generations.
Through these actions, Chattanooga can preserve its outdoor legacy, providing enriching experiences for all.
