Rock City Enterprises is asking residents to help shape the future of its proposed gondola transportation system by participating in a series of community open house meetings scheduled for mid-August.
The announcement comes as the project enters its next phase following the rejection of a rezoning proposal by the local planning commission that would have allowed construction of the gondola system. While that proposal was denied, Rock City officials say they remain committed to working with the community and gathering public input before the matter moves forward.
Six open house meetings are planned across Lookout Mountain and surrounding communities, giving residents multiple opportunities to ask questions, review information, and share feedback.
The schedule includes:
- Monday, Aug. 17
- Great Hall at Lookout Mountain Town Hall from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
- South Chattanooga Community Center from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
- Tuesday, Aug. 18
- Flintstone Chapel from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. and again from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, Aug. 19
- Rock City Parking Lot from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
- Grandview from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
The meetings follow the recent public release of a traffic study examining the potential impacts of the proposed gondola. According to the study, the project could reduce traffic along Ochs Highway while increasing traffic volumes on St. Elmo Avenue and Battlefield Parkway.
Rock City officials say additional reports addressing noise, public safety, environmental impacts, and sewer infrastructure will also be released to the public as the planning process continues.
Rock City President and CEO Doug Chapin said community involvement will play a key role in determining the project’s future.
“We have such gratitude for the community that has been our home for 94 years,” Chapin said.
Following the open houses, Rock City plans to compile and publish documentation summarizing community comments, ideas, and concerns. That feedback will be considered before the proposal moves to the next stage, when city council is expected to vote on a text amendment that will determine the project’s zoning status.
The proposed gondola has generated significant public interest in recent months, with supporters pointing to potential transportation and tourism benefits while opponents have expressed concerns about traffic, environmental impacts, and changes to the surrounding community. The upcoming open house meetings are expected to provide another opportunity for residents to voice those concerns and learn more about the project’s potential impacts before city leaders consider the next zoning decision.