Mold Remediation in Chattanooga, TN

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- A dramatic scene unfolded throughout the day on the side of Lookout Mountain.

A plume of smoke dotted the Chattanooga skyline, and a fire has affected a storied Chattanooga attraction.

Shortly before 7 Saturday morning, the Chattanooga Fire Department says a brush fire began off of a trail above the 700 block of South Scenic Highway.

Lookout Mountain Fire Chief Dale Taylor described, “It was spreading slowly, but it was in an area we could not get to.”

Units from the National Park Service and the Tennessee Forestry Service, and Lookout Mountain Fire Department all joined to assist in the efforts, but things took an unpredictable turn.

Chief Taylor said, “Unfortunately, the fire did get a little bit out of control for a few minutes, including catching the railroad tiles on the Incline Railway.”

The interaction with the Incline Railway, which has been in operation since the 1890’s, caused great concern for Chattanooga firefighters.

They ordered an evacuation of about 20 residences near the St. Elmo Incline Railway station around 2 Saturday afternoon.

Tennessee Avenue between 37th and 40th Streets was shut off as well, impacting businesses such as Mr. T’s Pizza, Amigo’s Mexican Cantina, and 1885 Grill.

None of the businesses sustained damage.

Capt. Terry Knowles, the Special Operations Chief of the Chattanooga Fire Department said, “It involving the tracks of the Incline and the mechanics of the Incline, we prompted it. In case one of the cars was to let go due to the fire and come down to the lower station area.”

This evacuation was lifted by 5 Saturday afternoon.

The railway’s cars were safely removed below the fire, as firefighters brought in reinforcements.

Chief Taylor said, “The National Park Service was instrumental to bring in a helicopter to conduct water drops, we’re just trying to make sure it doesn’t spread.”

Even though rain is in the forecast, Chief Knowles has tips to help avoid causing other fires while it remains dry.

Capt. Knowles said, “Just avoid outside fires, burning anything. I know the burn ban is not in effect right now, but until we get some rain maybe limit that. Outside grill or any kind of grilling, just have a water supply just in case something catches on fire.”

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

As of Saturday evening the latest update on the fire from the Chattanooga Fire Department was:

“There is a fire break around the entire impacted area. The only fire that crews are having to deal with is the railroad ties from the incline which is in areas that are very challenging to reach. Firefighters are holding the line and making sure everything is protected. There are multiple people on “fire watch” throughout the night at various locations of the rail.”

Additionally, Scott Wilson, the Chief of Staff for CARTA, stated:

“The Lookout Mountain Incline Railway is temporarily closed due to an ongoing active fire incident.

We are fully cooperating with emergency response teams who are currently managing the situation. The safety of our guests and staff remains our highest priority.

We will conduct a thorough assessment once emergency personnel have secured the site and will provide updates regarding service restoration when appropriate.”

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — Thousands of Tennessee-American Water customers in the Chattanooga area are grappling with concerns over potential water contamination in their homes.

The federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warns that water from both galvanized steel and lead pipes can pose significant health risks.

And in the past few weeks, Tennessee-American has sent out notices to affected homes. You can check to see if your home has this issue by plugging in your address here.

However, replacing these pipes is a costly endeavor that many residents tell us they cannot afford.

Gage Roper, a renter, told us on Tuesday he was unaware of the potential risk until he received a notice from Tennessee American Water.

"I knew this house was old, but I thought it was still really crazy that they let people, you know, rent the house out without replacing the pipes," Roper said.

After contacting his property manager, he was told they would "get on it," but says he has yet to hear back from maintenance.

Mike Adkins, who resides in a 1940s home in the Ridgeside neighborhood, also received a notice about lead service lines under his home.

"I had received those before in the past. I'm not sure whether it was from them or not, but about the pipes, and it's your responsibility from this point on," Adkins said.

Despite the notice, Adkins does not plan to replace the pipes, citing recent plumbing updates during a remodel.

Both Roper and Adkins have taken precautions by using water filters and avoiding drinking tap water.

"We do have a filter on the refrigerator, on the ice maker," Adkins said. Roper added, "We do not drink tap water. We do, obviously, shower in it. So that worries me a little bit."

Tennessee American Water maintains that their system's drinking water is safe.

However, their website notes that lead could be present if service lines, household plumbing, or fixtures contain lead.

The utility does not offer lead testing for individual customers.

To see if your home contains lead pipes, go here.

Depend on us to keep you posted with updates on this developing story.

WATCH OUR CONTINUING COVERAGE

Table of Contents

Retreats with a view

Hideaways with history

Cozy chalets + cottages

Farm Charm

We all need a staycation or a trip to a different city from time to time. Whether you’re a Chattanoogan feeling a little cooped up or a visitor looking for a special Scenic City experience, picking the perfect home away from home is crucial.

We went looking for unique lodgings around town that showcase Chattanooga’s spirit. So choose your ideal digs, pack your bags, and get ready for a memorable getaway.

Cloudland at McLemore Resort, Rising Fawn, GA Stay above the clouds at this resort that not only offers breathtaking views of Lookout Mountain from all of the rooms, but also has an onsite spa, infinity pool, dining options, and so much more. Bonus: See what our must-dos are for your itinerary.

Treetop Hideaways at Ruby FallsHead to Lookout Mountain for a getaway hidden in the trees. Pick from three luxury treehouses equipped with amenities such as indoor + outdoor showers, wrap-around decks, and fire pits.

Wauhatchie WoodlandsLocated ~10 minutes from downtown, this retreat is full of tiny cabins + larger stays for big groups. Each unit comes with a private hot tub and has a wrap-around porch to get the scenic views. Bonus: See what City Editor Haley liked about her stay.

Welcome Valley Village, BentonTravel to the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains to this log cabin retreat where you can choose a stay from six cabins or three Conestoga wagons that reside along the river banks. Bonus: See what City Editor Kristen liked about her stay.

Riverside Bed and Breakfast, Soddy-DaisyThis bed and breakfast is only a ~30-minute drive from Chattanooga’s downtown and offers a peaceful stay immersed in nature along Soddy Creek.

Chester Frost Park Yurts, HixsonRent out a newly-developed waterfront yurt site that comes furnished with ramp access and a porch — there’s even two sites that have space to park an RV. Linens are not provided.

Cloudland Canyon Yurts, Cloudland Canyon, GALooking for a unique “glamping” experience? Head to this nearby state park to stay in a private yurt equipped with furniture, electrical outlets, windows, and locking doors.

Riverfront Getaway with a View, Tennessee River GorgeEscape into nature and take in beautiful mountain + river views. During the warmer months, enjoy access to swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding. Bonus: This spot is known for bald eagle sightings.

Brow Home, Lookout Mountain, GAThis quaint home sits atop the mountain, offering scenic views from the deck (a portion is screened in, perfect for the colder months) + sleeps six. There is also a hot tub on the deck you can enjoy. City Editor Haley here — I stayed in this property for New Year’s Eve back in 2023 and it was a perfect getaway.

“Wandering Gypsy,” Rising Fawn, GAStay in this tiny cabin designed by Emily Key that is fully made out of recycled materials. Watch the sunset from the hot tub or sit by the fire pit and take in the mountainside.

Pot Point Cabin, Tennessee River GorgeThis cabin was originally built in 1835 and is located on over 400 acres of protected natural lands along the banks of the Tennessee River.

Chanticleer Inn Bed & Breakfast, Lookout Mountain, GAStay above the clouds in this European-style inn that was built in 1927. Located directly across from Rock City Gardens, the stone-faced wall cottages provide the “traditional ambiance of a European villa, whilst enjoying all the modern amenities of today.”

Bluff View InnStay in three historical Bluff View homes: the Maclellan House, the T.C. Thompson House, and the Martin House. Take in the olden beauty while being within walking distance of one of downtown’s most popular attractions.

Mayor’s Mansion InnThis 11-room bed-and-breakfast mansion was built in 1889 and was home to former Chattanooga Mayor, Edmond G. Watkins. Bonus: Guests receive a three-course complimentary breakfast served daily in the mansion’s Tiffany Room.

Cozy Chalet, Signal MountainEnjoy a mountain stay while only being ~10 minutes away from downtown Chattanooga. This chalet has a fireplace and a deck swing perfect for cozying up.

Gardens in the Gorge Cottage, Tennessee River GorgeStay in this storybook-esque cottage that’s tucked into Prentice Cooper State Forest. Guests have access to the surrounding garden, law, and trails.

The Burrow, Chickamauga, GAThis magical space is located on a 40-acre private farm in nearby Chickamauga. Participate in their signature scavenger hunt, see the local wildlife on the property, and make sure to bring marshmallows to roast in the outdoor cauldron.

Treehouse Cottage, Lookout Mountain, GAThis boho treehouse is on the grounds of a local flower farm. Guests can add on a goat visit (yes, you heard us correctly), a farm tour, flower bouquets, or a bonfire.

Mountain Paradise, Signal MountainWhile you’re taking in the mountain views and hiking the miles of trails nearby, say hello to the farm’s horse and donkey. You’ll also see turkey, fox, deer, raccoons, and more on the property.

Unique Farm Guest House, Chickamauga, GAThis 31-acre farm has plenty of pastures to explore during your stay (which makes it a perfect spot to bring your pup along on your adventures). You can visit the pasture pets, where pats and supervised cuddles are encouraged.

Unique Silo, Chickamauga, GATake your farm stay literally and visit this getaway constructed in a repurposed modern grain bin.

Sweet Vintage Camper, Chickamauga, GACheck out this vintage Avion camper that’s stationed on SydneyLand Farm. Listen to the sounds of nature and say hello to the farm’s donkeys and goats that are in the next-door barnyard.

Old Blue Chair Tiny House, Rising Fawn, GAThis farmhouse has a lot of charm, but we’re loving the Dutch-door that looks down on the valley 1,400 ft below + it shares a block with five-star restaurant, The Canyon Grill.

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--CBL Properties (NYSE:CBL) today announced Crunch Fitness opens at Hamilton Place in Chattanooga, Tennessee, today, as one of the final components of the property’s Sears redevelopment project. The redevelopment, which commenced in 2019, brought a variety of new destinations to the property, including The Cheesecake Factory, Mean Mug Coffeehouse, Malone’s, Dave & Buster’s, DICK’S Sporting Goods, and an Aloft by Marriott hotel.

“Our proactive approach to anchor redevelopment allowed us to thoughtfully execute a transformative project at one of our top properties,” said Stephen Lebovitz, chief executive officer, CBL Properties. “Crunch Fitness adds yet another new use to the campus and comes on the heels of the successful and highly anticipated opening of Malone’s.”

Lebovitz added, “2024 has been an exciting year for Hamilton Place as we’ve welcomed more than 110,000 square feet of new restaurants and retail to the campus.”

Since March, eight new retailers and restaurants have opened at Hamilton Place, including Taco Mamacita, Texas Roadhouse, Mr. Cow, Malone’s, Miniso, Vintage Stock, Dry Goods, Shoe Station, as well as a newly remodeled and expanded Buckle store.

“It’s exciting to see the growing number of retailers and restaurants that have decided to invest in the rapidly expanding Chattanooga market by opening at Hamilton Place,” commented Lebovitz. “Customers have responded positively to the new additions, reflected by sustained growth in both traffic and sales.”

Additional openings are expected in 2025, with more details to be announced as plans are finalized.

About CBL Properties

Headquartered in Chattanooga, TN, CBL Properties owns and manages a national portfolio of properties located in dynamic and growing communities. CBL’s owned and managed portfolio is comprised of 91 properties totaling 57.1 million square feet across 21 states, including 55 high-quality enclosed malls, outlet centers and lifestyle retail centers as well as more than 30 open-air centers and other assets. CBL seeks to continuously strengthen its company and portfolio through active management, aggressive leasing and profitable reinvestment in its properties. For more information visit cblproperties.com.

CBL_Prop

Contacts

Investor Contact: Katie Reinsmidt, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, 423.490.8301, Katie.Reinsmidt@cblproperties.com Media Contact: Stacey Keating, Vice President– Corporate Communications, 423.490.8361, Stacey.Keating@cblproperties.com