The Porch CHA
The Porch CHA stands as a collaborative placemaking initiative involving key partners: the Chattanooga Department of Transportation, Chattanooga Design Studio, YMCA of Metropolitan Chattanooga, The Enterprise Center, The Chattanooga Public Library, and Patten Towers.
Upon assessing downtown's public spaces through the "The Public Realm Action Plan," the public space adjacent to Patten Towers, situated at Georgia Avenue and Market Street, emerged as the most sociable area. Approximately 9 out of 10 people were observed in groups of two or more. Despite being the densest population in downtown Chattanooga with close to 200 residents, the surrounding outdoor area lacked sufficient comfortable public space for residents to gather and socialize. Challenges included limited seating, inadequate lighting, and the uninviting ground floors of the building that discouraged people from passing through or spending time there. Through conversations with Patten Towers residents, it became evident that they desired a friendly and welcoming outdoor space, yet many felt a lack of safety in this environment.
The Porch CHA transcends mere ground markings; it signifies the metamorphosis of the area into an authentic neighborhood gathering place, offering spaces to unwind, enjoy, and connect. The project secured a national "Made to Move" grant from Blue Zones and Degree Deodorant, providing essential funding and professional expertise.
Beyond the vibrant street and sidewalk paint, diverse and colorful street furniture was introduced to establish inviting seating areas. Notably, you might spot a pay phone, prompting curiosity in the year 2021. Its purpose? To foster more connections! EPB collaborated with the project team, offering free local outgoing calls from the "pay phone" and complimentary NoogaNet WiFi for the space.
The Porch CHA also added elements to improve street safety, include larger bulb outs at the corners of the intersection and brightly colored crosswalks. The paint is used to connect Patten Towers to addition neighborhood “outposts,” including the downtown public library and Miller Park. Four swing sets were also installed to add elements of fun, whimsy, and play to downtown. Two swing sets were installed outside of Patten Towers, with one going in at the downtown library and the fourth installed in Miller Park, further tying these downtown locations together.
