SBRG - Plan Recommendations

AMENITIES

Despite the poor condition of its housing stock, the Southside Gardens neighborhood does feature an urban grid of streets and parcels for new infill housing along with historic houses for renovation. South Broad does have significant businesses that make the area attractive for future investment. With over 100,000 square feet in retail space, a large grocery store, two drugstores, a laundromat, dry cleaners, and several banks, the area has the amenities that make close-in living attractive. The area also boasts several large employers. Among them is Chattem, which has expansion plans for its South Broad facilities. The 22 acre Wheland site also represents a potential for many high paying technology or light industrial jobs. The wide range of services and jobs in the South Broad area is complemented by a healthy number of cultural and educational institutions. There are 7 churches, and 3 schools (Howard Elementary, Howard School of Academics and Technology, and Chattanooga Christian School). Three parks (5 acres total) must also be included in any list of South Broad amenities. South Broad is also in close proximity to public safety and emergency services. The South Chattanooga Police Precinct and two fire stations (#1 and #14) are within a mile of the study area.

STUDY AREA

The study area is bounded on the north by 1-24, on the west by the Tennessee River, on the south by the Norfolk Southern Railroad, and on the east by the CSX Railroad line and the back property line of the parcels that front Broad Street from Chattanooga Creek to 37th Street.

This nearly 600-acre area has roughly 1028 residents. The population is 93% AfricanAmerican and the median household income is $7,614, compared to the citywide median household income of $32,006. A study of existing land use patterns reveals a variety of uses sprinkled throughout the study area, but most of the South Broad area is zoned for manufacturing. There is a serious discrepancy between existing zoning and existing land use. The history of the area as a manufacturing stronghold is represented by some remaining manufacturing operations, but the area has, for the most part, converted to commercial and residential uses.