Hamilton County Commissioners approve 20-story building in city

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) — The Hamilton County Commission was busy on Monday as they discussed the future of the site occupied by the Eureka Foundry near Finley Stadium.

A landmark with deep roots in Chattanooga’s industrial history took center stage as developers presented a plan for the future of that site.

Monday’s meeting focused on a proposal to approve the construction of a 20-story building.

With new construction ahead, concerns have been raised about the height and the possibility of nearby homes being overshadowed or disrupting the city’s skyline.

“We’re not looking to do 20 stories across the entire nine acres. It’s only a small portion. Only the portion of the site that is closest to [Highway] 27, that will be in that 20-story range, and then stepping down from there,” said developer representative Katlin Sims.

This landmark became a staple in industrial history. Now it has become a focal point of contention and opportunity for growing Chattanooga.

“There are some surrounding developments in this area. The Bend is one that we have all heard and talked about. Everybody is looking to embrace height at this point and when land is as scarce as it is today, we’ve got to start accepting that maybe this is a game changing plan,” said Sims.

The decision by commissioners marks a significant step forward for the Eureka foundry site.

With approval granted, developers can now move ahead in shaping downtown Chattanooga upward.