Tennessee is planning a multimillion dollar investment in Chattanooga’s riverfront.
The budget state legislators passed this week included $15 million for riverfront revitalization efforts at Ross’s Landing. The earmark could support efforts including site prep, construction and engineering. Design for the project is slated to wrap by the end of May.
Chattanooga and Hamilton County leaders both pressed for the funding’s inclusion in the state’s budget.
(READ MORE: Planners seek feedback on Chattanooga’s riverfront revamp plan)
In a joint news release, the county and city mayors said funding would benefit locals and credited state legislators, local partners and each other with helping to secure the money.
“The city and county have worked closely together on plans that we believe will attract local families and visitors alike back to the banks of the Tennessee River,” County Mayor Weston Wamp said in the release. “With this state investment, the next chapter of Ross’s Landing begins in earnest, featuring new places to gather, play and eat in one of the most iconic settings in the South.”
Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly said the state’s support will help fuel the downtown area in years to come.
“The downtown riverfront is at the heart of Chattanooga’s story of renewal and success, and this investment will power the next great era of our downtown,” Kelly said in the release. “Our outdoor spaces aren’t just our identity in Chattanooga, they’re our competitive advantage, generating economic growth and improving quality of life. These transformed riverfront parks will be cherished by visitors and Chattanoogans alike for years to come.”
— Compiled by Mariah Franklin