News Summary
Plans are being considered for the Parkway Towers Building in Chattanooga as its owner contemplates preservation versus development of condominiums. Community reactions are mixed, with some viewing the structure as an eyesore and others advocating for its historical significance. The building’s future hinges on upcoming inspections, while nearby constructions, like the Medical Arts Building, also raise preservation concerns.
Chattanooga – Plans are underway that may determine the future of the Parkway Towers Building, located at 1823 Reggie White Blvd, directly across from Finley Stadium. The longtime owner, Maurice Kadosh of KH Property Group, is contemplating the preservation of this historic structure while simultaneously developing condominiums on the site. However, the building’s fate will depend largely on the results of further detailed inspections to assess its condition.
The Parkway Towers has drawn mixed reactions from the community. Many see the structure as an eyesore, particularly due to a large graffiti marking reading “Junk.” Conversely, historical preservationists argue that the building holds architectural significance and merits preservation efforts. The Parkway Towers is often described as “the ugly duckling” of Chattanooga’s buildings, yet some view it as a hidden gem worthy of protection.
The construction date of the Parkway Towers remains uncertain. While some sources suggest that it may have been built in 1920, recent research indicates that construction may have begun as early as 1909. The building was originally a substation for the Chattanooga & Tennessee Electric Power Company, which was founded in 1905. This company funded the construction of the Hales Bar Dam in 1913 for power generation. The Parkway Towers was likely built between 1913 and 1922, aligning with the company’s growth and subsequent merger with the Tennessee Electric Power Company in 1922. A sign on the side of the building proudly marks its historical significance as part of the city’s development.
The current condition of the Parkway Towers is a crucial factor in the decision-making process regarding its future. The building is fenced off and surrounded by a grassy area, but its interior layout is atypical and less oriented towards the nearby stadium than towards the street. Previously, after serving as a substation, it was repurposed as a storage facility for Classic Refinery.
The Parkway Towers has a complex history, including legal disputes over whether the city could acquire the building through eminent domain for parking expansion. A tragic accident occurred at the site in 2005 when Asher Love Mendonsa fell, drawing further attention to the building’s circumstances. In 2008, Kadosh and partner Joshua Olsin purchased the building, bringing renewed interest in its future.
Nearby, the R.H. Hunt-designed Medical Arts Building is also facing similar scrutiny as it contemplates demolition plans initiated by the First Presbyterian Church. The church’s master plan, developed by deacons, aims to replace the historic building with new facilities that align with their growth needs. The Medical Arts Building’s condition has been documented, highlighting extensive deferred maintenance issues that have contributed to discussions about its future.
The Parkway Towers Building could play a vital role in the revitalization of the Southside area surrounding Finley Stadium. As Chattanooga continues to grow and develop, the decisions made regarding the Parkway Towers may significantly impact both the historical landscape of the city and its contemporary urban environment. Community discussions are likely to continue as stakeholders consider the balance between preservation and development in this historically rich area.
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Additional Resources
- Local 3 News: Parkway Towers Seeks Rezoning
- Wikipedia: Chattanooga
- Chattanoogan: John Shearer Random Thoughts
- Google Search: Parkway Towers Chattanooga
- Times Free Press: 100-Year-Old Parkway Towers
- Google Scholar: Parkway Towers Chattanooga
- Local 3 News: Parkway Towers Could Be Taken Down
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Chattanooga
- Chattanooga Pulse: Preserve Chattanooga
- Google News: Parkway Towers
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.
