Some of Alton Park’s most familiar streets will soon carry new names–secondary designations honoring residents who left a lasting mark on the South Chattanooga community.
The Chattanooga City Council has unanimously approved new signage recognizing three longtime residents: Milton L. Jackson Sr., Florence High, and Erma R. Choice. Councilwoman Raquetta Dotley, who represents District 7–which includes Alton Park–said the designations are intended to preserve legacies that shaped the neighborhood.
“As we work to revitalize the South Chattanooga community, we must honor those whose legacy of justice, community and advocacy paved the way,” she told the Chattanooga News Chronicle. “Remembering them preserves our rich heritage and ensures our culture remains the foundation for future growth.”
One designation will rename a portion of Central Avenue between East 38th Street and Workman Road as Milton L. Jackson Sr. Avenue. Another sign will mark West 45th Street, between Central and Oakland avenues, as Florence High Avenue. Earlier this spring, the council also voted to commemorate West 38th Street, from Central Avenue to Alton Park Boulevard, as Mrs. Erma R. Choice Commemorative Street.
Milton L. Jackson Sr., who died May 18 at the age of 89, was a leading voice on environmental justice in Alton Park. A founder of the Stop Toxic Pollution Organization, Jackson helped secure a federal Superfund designation for the polluted Chattanooga Creek–bringing crucial funding and manpower for cleanup efforts.
He frequently lobbied officials and educated neighbors about the health risks tied to industrial pollution in their community. The Oak Hills Neighborhood Association remembered Jackson as “dedicated and determined to make a better place for all,” calling him a local legend.
Florence High, born in 1922, died in 2003 at the age of 81. She was best known for her devotion to young people in the neighborhood. Despite never having played sports herself, she became the coach of Alton Park’s Eli Giants softball team and was a tireless presence at youth activities.
“She always supported us 100%,” her son, Robert High, recalled in an earlier interview. “There was never an excuse as to why she couldn’t be there.”
High left behind a large family, including 22 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.
Erma Ruth Choice, who passed away in 2017 at age 89, was fondly known as a “neighborhood mother” in Alton Park. Community members remembered her warmth, steady presence, and support across generations.
In April, the City Council unanimously approved a resolution in her honor, officially naming part of West 38th Street as “Mrs. Erma R. Choice Commemorative Street.”
Councilwoman Dotley said there will be a celebration in Alton Park once all three signs are installed, giving residents the opportunity to honor the lives and contributions of these leaders together. “These names will not just be on signs,” Councilwoman Dotley said. “They represent the spirit of service, strength and love that built Alton Park.”