The Lookout Mountain Conservancy invites the community to a free event, “Open Minds Open House Open Space: A Mingling of the Minds on the Mountainside” on May 31 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The event will be held at 1813 Old Wauhatchie Pike, the site of a seven-acre tract at the base of Lookout Mountain formerly owned by the Williams-Sexton family.
The conservancy acquired the property at the end of last year. It adjoins John Wilson Park, a 3.5-acre wayside park on Cummings Highway owned by Lookout Mountain Conservancy and maintained for public use.
“We want everyone to share ideas about how this great piece of property can be used,” said Mary Anne Williams, president of the board of directors for Lookout Mountain Conservancy. “Our mission is to protect Lookout Mountain’s scenic, historic and ecological resources through conservation, advocacy, recreation and education. This property provides a way for the Tennessee Riverwalk to connect to the extensive Lookout Mountain trail system we and our conservation partners maintain for everyone to enjoy.”
First Tennessee Bank and Chattanooga Coca-Cola Bottling are sponsoring the event. “We want folks to drop in, nibble, sip, mingle and see where the Riverwalk will connect to Lookout Mountain,” said Keith Sanford, First Tennessee Bank Market President and LMC Board member.
“This is an open house without the house,” said Peggy Laney, board member. “The site is unfinished – no high heels!” LMC volunteers have been salvaging brick from the site for future use on pathways and other structures as the park is developed. Guests can imagine river vistas and trails as they walk parts of the site.
Refreshments will be served and parking is available in Chattem lots off Old Wauhatchie Pike on Church Street.
Source: Lookout Mountain Conservancy