Developers give more details on Choo Choo changes

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) Northpond Partners announced their long-term plans to overhaul the Chattanooga Choo Choo.

The property includes The Hotel Chalet, The Signal music venue and the Terminal Dome Building and Gardens.

The first public space improvements will be finished in a few weeks. That includes a new look for The Gardens in the middle of the complex.

They are adding 10,000 square feet of lawn, a stage and new landscaping.

The developers are also promising new holiday offerings, including the largest indoor Christmas tree in town.

There will be a winter-themed art installation in The Gardens, a Polar Express themed train car and two pop-up events.

The seasonal ice rink is moving out of the Choo Choo for the First Horizon Pavilion in 2023.

Northpond reports that the work on the Hotel Chalet at The Choo Choo is almost complete.

They will accept their first visitors at the end of October.

The work includes restoring the vintage Pullman train carriages and a new Appalachian Bistro named Elsie’s Daughter.

“We are excited to unveil long-term plans for the property that will offer benefits to the entire Chattanooga community, visitors, and tenants,” says Jeff Merriam, Director of Investments and Asset Management. “Our vision for The Chattanooga Choo Choo, including the iconic sign, is to create a space that can be enjoyed for generations to come.”