Tennessee Temple Dorms Could Become Modern Rentals

CHATTANOOGA,TN, (WDEF)-Abandoned and boarded up, these two dorm blocks on the edge of Tennessee Temple’s historic campus will soon be given a new lease of life.

Martina Guilfoil, CNE,"On the dorms we are looking at affordable rentals there’s a huge need now right now and Chattanooga’s one of the fastest growing markets in terms of price in the country"

Guilfoil says there are no set dates yet but she expects a busy summer of meetings.

"Closing on the lots to begins, demolition permits going, some environmental issues we have to resolve, it will probably be six months or so I guess"

Residents say one of their big concerns is that any replacement buildings would have to take into account the history and architecture of this area.

Dawn Siebold, concerned resident,"I’m especially concerned as its right next to me, so I would like to see something like high end condos or middle to high end condos, something that looks more historical more like craftsman style condos"

Joseph Nyerere, local property owner,"It’s like living in a neighborhood you have to live in a neighborhood it has to be a nice one"

Guilfoil said that her team at CNE will be employing a local architect to make sure that any designs will compliment the already area established  homes.

Tennessee Temple officials say they have the utmost faith in Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise and are glad their buildings can be put to use.

"Well its something that we have been working with CNE for a long time, probably began discussions as early as the fall os 2012 and obviously there was a lot on their side as well as our side"

Campus security and residents said having the buildings boarded up has kept intruders and squatters out.

Guilfoil and CNE will hold an open community forum in the Highland Park area on July 31st to get the views of residents before final plans are drawn up.
     They added a location has not yet been confirmed but it will be in the evening.