Corker Reflects on Chattanooga’s Transformation
Chattanooga,TN (WDEF)-Former U.S. Senator and Chattanooga Mayor Bob Corker shared heartfelt memories and powerful reflections during his keynote at the Tri-State Summit, hosted by Thrive Regional Partnership.
Corker described one of the most emotional moments of his career—the day Volkswagen’s board called to announce they were bringing a plant to Chattanooga. He said he knew in that instant how transformative the decision would be for the community.
“It may be, for all of us in this room, the biggest economic drive we might have—and that is to make sure we take care of the basics in our communities and celebrate what we have,” Corker said.
He credited collaboration between government leaders, businesses, and community organizations for shaping Chattanooga’s renaissance. Corker pointed to the city’s riverfront development as a prime example of how vision and teamwork can transform a region.
“We had 500 show up, and of course you see how the riverfront—it shaped the riverfront and it connected us to the Hunter Museum. We built the glass bridgeway across, expansions on the pier, all of the public art was built in that. And it affected our community, to participate and demonstrate our care for that,” he reflected.
Corker emphasized that bold leadership and cross-sector partnerships continue to be the driving force behind Chattanooga’s growth, reminding attendees that innovation and cooperation remain essential for building a stronger future across the tri-state region.
