Independence Day concert funding restored

The show will go on for the Pops on the River festival that celebrates the Fourth of July every year, organizers said this week.

"There's been enough support in the community," said Dan Bowers, president of Allied Arts of Greater Chattanooga. "Pops will happen like it has in the past. We're thrilled."

The Pops on the River event received a scare last week when some City Council members talked of canceling the show because of the city's budget crunch. A question arose about whether the city should reallocate $40,000 to help fund it.

The council voted 6-2 against providing the money. Councilman Jack Benson and Councilwoman Deborah Scott voted in favor of funding the event.

POPS ON THE RIVER EVENTThe event begins 8:30 p.m. Saturday, July 3, and lasts until 9:45 p.m., according to whatsonwhen.com.

But the $40,000 was reallocated from the now-defunct Chattanooga Downtown Partnership, Mr. Bowers said.

He said Allied Arts, which is helping to put the event on, has gathered an additional $40,000 from private funding. The $80,000 will be enough for the city to host the event in Coolidge Park, he said.

Richard Beeland, spokesman for Mayor Ron Littlefield, said the mayor is thrilled the event is going to take place.

"It's a Chattanooga tradition and one we're glad to keep," he said.

Continue reading by following this link to a related story:

Article: City talks fireworks, benefits, tax hike

Upcoming Events