News Summary
The Parkway Towers building in Chattanooga is set for revitalization under a new mixed-use development proposal. KH Property Group aims to rezone the property, creating 90 residential units and commercial spaces. This project is expected to foster growth in the Southside Chattanooga community, enhancing the area’s vibrancy and event offerings. Previous redevelopment efforts have not materialized, but optimism for this initiative is high, considering the building’s historical significance as part of the region’s early electrical infrastructure.
Chattanooga, Tennessee – The Parkway Towers building, a long-vacant structure formerly serving as a power substation, is set to undergo a revitalization under a new mixed-use development proposal. Atlanta-based developer KH Property Group is seeking to rezone the property, which is strategically located across from Finley Stadium and adjacent to the First Horizon Pavilion, to create a space that includes 90 residential units alongside commercial areas.
This redevelopment marks a significant shift from the building’s existing industrial zoning and aligns with ongoing commercial and residential growth in the area. The plan aims to breathe new life into the Southside Chattanooga community, anticipated to enhance event activities at nearby venues and foster year-round vibrancy in the vicinity.
In the past, attempts to redevelop Parkway Towers have fallen short, with a previous effort by KH Property Group proposing an 8-story condominium that did not materialize. However, local stakeholders see this latest proposal as a fresh opportunity for neighborhood revitalization. Brian Wright, the Executive Director of Finley Stadium, has highlighted the potential of the project to diversify event offerings and benefit both the local community and visitors.
The Parkway Towers building has historical significance, having been part of the electrical infrastructure established by the Chattanooga & Tennessee River Power Company, which began construction in 1909. Designed by architect Thomas E. Murray, the building was initially a “transformer house” connected to the Hales Bar Dam, constructed with a steel frame and reinforced concrete by Schillinger Bros. of Chicago and Converse Bridge Co.
The facility supplied power through copper connections that linked to transmission lines crossing the Tennessee River. The Hales Bar Dam started operations in 1913 but was eventually replaced by the Nickajack Dam in 1967 due to leakage issues. The Parkway Towers is recognized as a vital piece of early electrical power infrastructure in the region.
The proposed mixed-use development aims to draw people to the area, creating a dynamic atmosphere surrounding both Finley Stadium and the First Horizon Pavilion. Locally, there is optimism regarding the potential community impact of this new initiative, as it could revitalize the neighborhood and enrich the hospitality and entertainment landscape.
Brian Wright underscored the importance of this project, stating it would not only enhance the stadium but also attract more events and activities to the area. The proposal is seen as a way to establish a vibrant environment that can support local businesses and attract visitors year-round, contributing to the long-term growth and development of Southside Chattanooga.
As KH Property Group moves forward with their plans, the community and stakeholders remain hopeful that the Parkway Towers redevelopment will ignite economic growth and significantly enhance the aesthetic and social landscape of this historic part of Chattanooga.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Future of Parkway Towers Building in Chattanooga Uncertain
Chattanooga’s Business Landscape: Recent Changes and Developments
Chattanooga’s New Residential Project Set to Transform Southside
Chattanooga’s Culinary Revival Through Historic Echoes
Additional Resources
- Local 3 News: Parkway Towers Seeks Rezoning
- Wikipedia: Chattanooga
- Times Free Press: Developer Wants to Keep Parkway Towers
- Google Search: Parkway Towers Chattanooga
- Chattanoogan: John Shearer Random Thoughts
- Google Scholar: Chattanooga redevelopment
- Times Free Press: 100-Year-Old Parkway Towers to Be Razed
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tennessee
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
