Join the Downtown Movement!
Those of us who currently live in the city have known for quite some time how great it is, but it’s obvious now that the word is getting out. Recent census figures show the city is the fastest growing municipality in Hamilton County. It’s clear that our city’s outstanding amenities are continuing to attract old and young alike to settle down in our city’s core. Just look at some of the reasons why….
By Kim H. White, President, River City Company
Downtown Lifestyle
Downtown accessibility is at a height with a new bike share program adding to the free convenient electric shuttles and high walkability ratings. Filling in the gaps for downtown residents, developers now have plans in the works for two new full-service grocery stores downtown—one on the North- Shore and one on the Southside. Add a unique city font, the fastest internet in the world, public art, over 100 local restaurants, a fabulous riverwalk, new affordable rental housing developments like the St. Barnabas apartments, and an outdoor community that could “out boulder” Boulder, CO… it’s no wonder we’re one of the fastest growing metropolitan areas in the country.
Restaurants and Retail
The NorthShore and Southside have had local retailers and artists flocking to those districts for years. Just take a look around the downtown areas of Frazier Avenue or Main Street—if there’s one thing that clear, it’s that Chattanooga believes in supporting local goods whether they be produce, clothing, bicycles, or locally made art and furnishings. Now, City Center is following suit (no pun intended). In the past year, four new restaurants have opened up in the 800 block of Market Street, making the district a new hot spot for local foodies. Meanwhile, five new businesses have been added to CitiPark via River City Company’s “Project: PopUp” retail incubator program—just one more testament to Chattanooga’s entrepreneurial spirit.
Events & Festivals
Looking for a vibrant downtown experience? There’s always something going on in the Scenic City. Our downtown calendar is jam-packed with exciting events throughout the year, ranging from outdoor markets and seasonal celebrations to world-class art and music festivals. Love the great outdoors? This fall, witness the spectacular “Head of the Hooch” Rowing Regatta at RiverRocks, Chattanooga’s 10-day outdoor festival featuring 100+ events. Wine connoisseur? Enjoy a delicious local varietal while strolling over the Walnut Street Bridge during “Wine Over Water.” Art Lover? Discover intriguing pieces and meet local artists during our city’s Gallery Hop… and these are just a tiny sample of the many things going-on downtown.
With so many exciting developments underway, it’s no wonder thousands of people are choosing to live, work and play in the middle of it all. So join the movement! Come downtown, and you too can be a part of Chattanooga’s vibrant and progressive urban landscape.
