City Council discusses development plan for Lookouts Stadium

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) — The long-awaited groundbreaking for the new Lookouts Stadium should happen in the next month or so, according to developers.

Planned development of the area around that new stadium is starting to shape up as well.

“Well, this is something that’s going to be a generational change for Chattanooga,” said Council Member Chip Henderson of District One.   

The Chattanooga City Council came together Tuesday afternoon to talk about the new Lookout’s stadium, the development around it and safeguards for taxpayers if things don’t proceed according to plan. 

Developer Jim Irwin, the project master, presented strict target goals that would be required for developers to meet during the project. 

Councilman Henderson said he is looking forward to these plans becoming reality.  

“Really putting our city in a good light, it’s taking a blinded piece of property and moving it. And when you come around the bend, that’s going to be the key stone of the jewel as your coming into Chattanooga. And I think it will make a big difference,” he explained.  

With a new target rule, it adds a layer of protection to taxpayers and should keep the project on track and on time. 

“It gives them an initiative, and also gives the taxpayers a little bit of insurance that these developments will happen. Because the payment of the bonds is dependent on the development around the stadium,” Henderson added. 

For the city, the final vote on the budget should be coming soon.