Residents Fight Missionary Ridge Development

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – A major development proposed for Missionary Ridge is facing strong opposition from neighbors who say it’s too dense for the proposed area. 

The Doolittle Farms project, which would bring more than 1,700 housing units to a forested hill between Tunnel Boulevard and South Chickamauga Creek, is set for a March 10 rezoning hearing. While the developer says he’s worked with the community to address concerns, many residents say the project simply doesn’t fit.

Montra Tucker, a resident opposed to the development, stated “the biggest risk would probably be safety. The traffic congestion we talked about… over 1800 units… that will be bringing in families.”

Doolittle Farms would transform the proposed forested ridge into a high-density, mixed-use development. 

The plan includes apartment buildings, townhomes, and commercial spaces, but many longtime residents say it’s too much, too fast. 

At a meeting Sunday, neighbors organized to fight the rezoning request. They worry about increased traffic, overcrowding, and strain on local infrastructure.

Michael Kenner, the Project Developer, in regard to the project stated that “offsite sidewalks, improvements on Tunnel Boulevard, improvement to community centers in the local area… these are things the community can ask for and negotiate with developers. These are things we fully intend to have questions with and engage with y’all in the next session.”

Developer Michael Kenner says he’s adjusted the project based on community feedback. 

He previously withdrew his rezoning application in December and held roundtable discussions with residents. 

Kenner argues that the project will bring needed housing and economic growth to the area. 

But for many, the concern isn’t development, it’s the scale and density of this specific project. With strong opinions on both sides, the decision now lies with city officials.