Rezoning for a proposed Chattanooga Red Wolves SC stadium project has received initial approval from East Ridge, TN officials, though a final vote awaits.
Division III USL League One‘s Red Wolves are planning a new stadium that will anchor a larger mixed-use development on about 100 acres at Interstate 75 and Interstate 24. The estimated $125 million plan is led by Red Wolves and Utah-based Star Community Builders owner Bob Martino, and calls for a 5,550-seat stadium to highlight a project that includes 400 apartment and condominium units, 375 hotel rooms, 475,000 square feet of commercial space including the stadium, and a mix of walking and nature trails.
As part of the ongoing planning process, East Ridge officials are considering whether to rezone 61 acres to accommodate the development. The issue is currently before the East Ridge City Council, which on Thursday voted unanimously in favor of the rezoning on first reading. Further discussion will take place before a final vote, however, with a public hearing currently scheduled for June 27. Thus far, area residents have expressed some concerns, including worries over the project’s scope and fears about the potential for flooding in the area. More from the Chattanooga Times Free Press:
Marilyn Hadley, who lives near the proposed project slated for the vacant parcel at Interstate 75 and I-24, said after the meeting that she has a lot of worries.
A public hearing on rezoning property for a proposed $125 million mixed-used development, including a 5,500-seat stadium, is slated for June 27 in East Ridge.
“It’s too big a project for the area,” said Hadley.
The city council endorsed the rezoning with little discussion and is expected to take up the matter again for final approval after the public hearing late this month.
The Red Wolves have expressed hope that work on the stadium can begin this summer. A charter member of USL League One, which launched this spring, the Red Wolves are currently playing home matches at Chattanooga Christian School’s David Stanton Field.
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