It is no exaggeration to say that the magnificent development of Chattanooga’s waterfront has been a key part of the city’s economic growth in recent years. Tourists flock to the eye-catching natural and man-made attractions near the scenic Tennessee River, bringing in tax revenue and making the city more appealing to potential businesses.
So there is general agreement that the $120 million 21st Century Waterfront project – which included, among other things, the rebuilding of Ross’s Landing and the construction of a water feature called the Passage, beside the Tennessee Aquarium – was a boon to the city.
But some serious problems have plagued areas of the project since it was completed in 2005. For example, an inspection found electrical wiring that was not made to be in or near water, actually was under the water of the Passage.
“The above wiring condition is one of the most potentially dangerous that I’ve seen of this type in years,” the city inspector wrote.
The Passage had to be closed two years for repairs. The city has spent $1.5 million repairing the Passage and may have to spend an additional $1 million fixing concrete problems along the waterfront.