The chairman of a Veterans Memorial Park Committee said the World War II memorial being moved from Patten Parkway may be placed at the downtown end of the Olgiati Bridge. Patten Parkway is currently undergoing an extensive renovation.
Bill Raines said a number of veterans were involved in the decision.
He said there had been a "lengthy and vibrant process underway for nearly a year to find the best possible home for the World War II memorial as well as to honor the ultimate sacrifice of those who died in other wars."
He stated, "The committee responsible for making a recommendation for the new site for the World War II memorial includes 10 veterans with more than 150 years of service in wars from Korea to Afghanistan. Both our city and county representatives on the committee are veterans as well. We also have two military spouses on the committee, and we have three other individuals who are providing their design expertise on the new location.
"We evaluated eight options provided by the city of Chattanooga based on visibility, available area, access, appropriateness of the space for a patriotic memorial and current conditions of the site. We are also looking at ways we can incorporate additional memorials into the new site that would honor those from Chattanooga and Hamilton County who died serving in all conflicts since World War I.
"Although Coolidge Park and nearby Renaissance Park were both studied as possible sites, the committee believes it has found a better option that will provide a more suitable atmosphere and location for the public to visit the memorial. We conducted initial public comment in late June and July on two of the proposed sites, and are now seeking final approval from city officials on the riverfront site near the downtown end of the Olgiati Bridge. This site garnered the most support and best fits all the aspects for a new memorial park. Once that approval is given and the Tennessee State Historical Commission concurs, we will provide additional opportunities for public comment on the design and funding process.
"We understand some may disagree with our ultimate recommendation, but please be assured that the members of this group have dedicated many hours and careful consideration to find the best possible place and way to honor the memory of our area service members who have fought and died in defense of our country. From my perspective, I believe we are well on our way to accomplishing this goal."