Balancing Growth with Local History

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – As development continues to reshape Chattanooga, a new effort is giving residents multiple opportunities to weigh in on how the city preserves its historic identity while planning for future growth.

Preserve Chattanooga has launched a citywide historic preservation planning process, the first of its kind since 1977, aimed at guiding how preservation can support continued development while protecting historic and cultural resources.

The Chattanooga Historic Preservation Plan will serve as a roadmap for identifying, protecting, and celebrating the city’s historic assets, including neighborhoods, landmarks, landscapes, and historic buildings that define its character.

Rather than focusing on limiting growth, organizers say the goal is to help guide it thoughtfully, so the community retains the places and stories that make it unique.

A key part of the effort is public engagement. Residents across Hamilton County are encouraged to complete an anonymous community survey by June 30, which asks for feedback on priorities such as historic districts, neighborhood conservation, design review, preservation incentives, and future planning strategies.

In addition to the survey, Preserve Chattanooga says its consulting team, based in Nashville, 

will be visiting the community this week to meet with residents and gather input.

Organizers are also hosting a city council–led town hall on preservation this Wednesday at 6 p.m. in the City Council Chamber, where residents can learn more and share their thoughts directly.

Todd Morgan, executive director of Preserve Chattanooga, said the effort represents a “generational opportunity” for the community to reflect on what has been overlooked and what should be carried forward as the city evolves.

The planning process is being led by preservation consultants Walker Collaborative in partnership with Thomason and Associates and Common Ground. Funding for the project comes from the Lyndhurst Foundation and the Tennessee Historical Commission.

Organizers also announced a fundraising event scheduled for June 20 at St. John’s Restaurant. The event, called “Best Barrels,” will feature a whiskey-themed format, expanding on the organization’s well-known “Best Sellers” wine event held each October.

Community members can learn more about the plan and complete the survey through Preserve Chattanooga’s website.