Chattanooga, TN, September 4, 2025
News Summary
A large sinkhole on Heritage Landing Drive in Chattanooga has raised safety concerns and prompted a six-month repair timeline. Local engineers have discovered that the sinkhole is affecting a seven-foot wastewater pipe, necessitating specialized repair methods. Residents have expressed worries about increased traffic detours and safety issues. The Chattanooga Department of Transportation plans to secure a contractor by mid-October, with construction updates to follow.
Chattanooga, TN – A sizable sinkhole near the GPS athletic facility in downtown Chattanooga has resulted in an extended repair timeline that could take up to six months. The sinkhole, which has raised safety concerns among local residents, was first reported last month and was initially believed to be less severe than what city engineers have since discovered.
According to engineers from the Chattanooga Department of Transportation (CDOT), the damage extends beyond the visible hole on Heritage Landing Drive and is impacting a seven-foot wastewater pipe buried beneath the area. In response, the design team has decided on a specialized methodology to ensure the sewer line’s integrity during repairs.
The overall construction process is anticipated to take between four to six months once a contractor is secured. Emergency bidding for this contractor is expected to take three to four weeks, with the final selection projected for mid-October. Until a contractor is in place, the city will not provide a more precise timeline for construction.
Residents have expressed concerns regarding the increased traffic detours as vehicles are redirected through their neighborhoods. Local homeowners, such as Claytor Thompson, indicate worries about driver safety, particularly after experiencing close calls with vehicles navigating the detours. The Chattanooga Police Department has furthermore placed warning signs in the area, urging drivers to slow down as safety remains a significant concern.
The visible sinkhole measures approximately five feet wide and ten feet deep and was first reported following a 911 call just before 9:30 a.m. on a Sunday morning. Currently, the Chattanooga Department of Public Works has secured the site with caution tape and barrels to ensure public safety until the repairs commence.
While the repairs are taking place, the city plans to inspect additional drainage lines in the vicinity to address any further issues that may arise. The city officials are dedicated to managing this situation effectively while safeguarding critical infrastructure and minimizing disruptions for local residents.
Updates regarding the progress of this project and its timeline will be made available to the public as more information becomes accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the sinkhole on Heritage Landing Drive?
The sinkhole was initially reported due to visible damage but has since been found to be more extensive, affecting a seven-foot wastewater pipe underneath the surface.
How long will repairs take?
Repair work is expected to take between four to six months once a contractor is hired, which is anticipated to occur by mid-October.
What safety measures are in place for residents and drivers?
Caution tape and barrels have been placed around the sinkhole to avoid traffic incidents, and police have set up warning signs to urge drivers to slow down.
Key Features of the Sinkhole Issue in Chattanooga
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Heritage Landing Drive, near GPS athletic facility |
| Extent of Damage | Large sinkhole affecting a seven-foot wastewater sewer line |
| Initial Report Date | Last month, first reported on a Sunday morning |
| Size of Sinkhole | Approximately five feet wide and ten feet deep |
| Repair Timeline | Four to six months after contractor selection by mid-October |
| Safety Measures | Caution tape, barrels, and police warning signs |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Sinkhole Disrupts Heritage Landing Drive in Chattanooga
Project 58 x 58 Initiative to Enhance Highway Safety
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Catastrophic Flooding Hits Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga Faces Severe Weather and Sinkholes
Additional Resources
- NewsChannel 9
- Wikipedia: Sinkhole
- Local 3 News
- Google Search: Chattanooga sinkhole news
- Times Free Press
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Geology
- WLOS
- Google News: sinkhole Chattanooga
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.
