Departments
Economic and Community Development
Grant research, investor partnerships, the Border Region incentive program, public relations, and the City's capital projects.
Where
1517 Tombras Avenue
Open
Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
What the Department Does
The department researches grants, builds relationships with investors and businesses, serves as the City's liaison for the Border Region incentive program, runs public relations, and manages capital projects and infrastructure improvements.
In 2024 the Tennessee Municipal League gave East Ridge its Excellence in Economic Development award, citing sales tax growth of nearly $800 million since the Border Region district was created and the reinvestment of those funds in the City's downtown business district.
The Building Facade Improvement Grant
A grant for commercial property owners in the central business corridor, meant to remove blight and improve how buildings look. It runs on the fiscal year, opens for applications on July 1 each year, and is awarded first come, first served until the money for the year is gone.
Eligible work
- Masonry work. Colors and materials have to be submitted with the application or approved before it is submitted
- Window and door replacement
- Awnings that meet the adopted design standards
- Roof facade, where the roof can be seen as part of the facade
- Signage that meets City code. On a multi-tenant building every sign has to match in element and look, and unused pole or billboard signs have to come down as part of the project
- Architectural facade renovation, including ceilings, walls, fixed walls, internal architectural changes, interior and exterior lighting, permanent fixtures, and aesthetic detailing
- Improvements required by the Americans with Disabilities Act
- A new heating and cooling system, for a building that never had one
Roofs the grant does not cover
A roof that is flat, or that cannot be seen as part of the facade, is not eligible. Applicants have to be in the commercial business district corridor.
Commercial applications go to Cameron Hobbs-McAllister, Administrator of Economic and Community Development. Residential facade grant applications go to Melissa Mahoney, Administrative Assistant. Both are reached at (423) 867-7711.
Civic Groups That Meet Here
Three community organizations meet on a published schedule, alongside the City Council's own second and fourth Thursday.
First Thursday, 9:00 a.m.
East Ridge Helping Neighbors, at Jack's Restaurant
A non-profit founded in 2019 by local volunteers, working with the Neighborhood Helpers Volunteer Ministry on exterior repairs and yard clean-up for disabled and elderly residents who qualify. To join or to ask for help, email Daniel Beard or call (423) 567-4547.
First Thursday, 11:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
East Ridge Chamber of Commerce, at Life Care Center of East Ridge
A chapter of the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce, which was founded in 1887 and has more than 1,600 member companies employing more than 10,000 people. Membership is $15 a month.
Second and fourth Tuesday, 6:30 p.m.
East Ridge Optimist Club, at the East Ridge Community Center
Part of a volunteer organization of more than 2,500 members working with children and their communities. You do not need to be a member to attend.
Second and fourth Thursday, 6:00 p.m.
City Council, in the Council Chambers at City Hall
Agendas, minutes, and video are published for every meeting.
The Department's Vision
As the Gateway to Tennessee, East Ridge strives to be the Pioneer of economic progress, where all people can reach their full potential while embracing culture, recreation, and family values.
- Cameron Hobbs-McAllisterAdministrator of Economic and Community Development(423) 867-7711, extension 127