Members of the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Regional Planning Commission Monday approved the application submitted by Pat Neuhoff of Neuhoff Taylor Architects on behalf of Bassam Issa of the ANT Group. The project is called “The Enclave at East Hamilton.” it will be located at the corner of East Brainerd and Ooltewah-Ringgold Roads.
The project began as a mixed-use development with 250 luxury apartments located at the rear of the site. Using the “Community Vision” process that has been successful with several projects over the past year, ten members of the community served as committee members to meet with the team to develop the final plan that was presented to members of the Regional Planning Commission.
Members of the community appointed Sandra Adair, John Awad, Linda Benson, Bobby Cronan, Shaleigh Cronan, Scottie Neil, Bill Reesor, Charlie Rollins, Mark Smedley, and Mark West to serve on the community committee. Newly elected Hamilton County Commissioner Sabrena Smedley served as ex-officio member.
Since July 7, 16 community meetings have occurred that resulted in a development that now has limits on total square footage and the types of materials that will be used in the construction of the businesses on the site, and a project that will be built in phases. More than that, special places and branding signage will be constructed to welcome visitors not only to the site but also to the surrounding neighborhoods. Preservation of area woodlands and protecting neighbors from light and noise were also key issues that were successfully addressed.
West was appointed as chair of the community group. He said, “We began this process in strict opposition to the developer’s plans. The neighborhood was adamantly against having apartments. Our concerns started with the additional cars that would be using an already strained corridor as well as transient residents in our neighborhood. The developer listened to our concerns, and documented and addressed each point. Now we have a project worthy of the area.”
Commissioner Smedley said, “Representing one of the fastest growing districts in Hamilton County means that great consideration should be given as development is proposed. Sam Issa and his team are to be congratulated on their dedication to the project, and the committee is to be congratulated on their hard work on behalf of the community.”
Bassam Issa agreed. “We’re excited about this development. The Enclave at East Hamilton will provide an upscale commercial village that will feature small shops, restaurants, a bank, offices, and other commercial uses, along with a grocery store to service the neighborhoods.
Source: The Enclave at East Hamilton