Believe it or not, you’re 10 times safer on a train than in a car. | Photo via Amtrak
Right now, if you wanted to get to Atlanta, you’d have two options: drive or fly. But Chattanooga leaders are working to give you a third option: passenger trains.
The Sunbelt-Atlantic Connector would connect us with major cities in the region, including Memphis, Nashville, and Atlanta.
The intended benefits
Less traffic congestion (we’re looking at you, I-24)
Increased economic development
Boosted tourism revenue
Bringing passenger trains to Chattanooga is a huge undertaking, which is why the city has been studying the project since early 2024. The Federal Railroad Administration awarded the city a $500,000 grant to determine the scope, timeline, and cost.
Now that the research phase is coming to a close, city officials told us that Chattanooga is turning its focus to logistics: Where would each station be? What additional tracks are needed? How will crossings stay safe with increased train traffic?
Chattanoogans may not be riding the rails tomorrow, but the city is closer than ever to bringing passenger trains back. We’ll continue to follow this story as it develops.
Asked
Asked
When was the last time Chattanooga had a passenger train?
A. December 12, 1960 B. August 11, 1970 C. May 5, 1985 D. July 4, 1990
The YMCA of Metropolitan Chattanooga has state-of-the-art wellness equipment. | Photo courtesy of YMCA of Metropolitan Chattanooga
With the arrival of winter, the YMCA of Metropolitan Chattanooga is ready to help you stay active, healthy, and motivated — no matter your fitness level.
Whether you’re looking to kickstart a New Year’s resolution or maintain your routine through the colder months, the Y has options designed to make wellness simple + accessible:
Try the YMCA’s Winter Personal Training offer: buy a package of 10 sessions and get two free. You’ll work one-on-one with certified trainers who create customized plans for beginners and seasoned athletes alike.
From body composition analysis to state-of-the-art wellness equipment, the YMCA offers top-of-the-line wellness amenities to help members measure progress and stay motivated.
Join the Y on New Year’s Day and get your first month free, plus enjoy a $0 join fee all month long. A membership includes access to the pool + sauna, group exercise classes, a wellness consultation, and more.
Being an informed Chattanoogan just got easier. The city launched an updated public data portal where residents can check out maps and information about safety, housing, roads, outdoors, and more.
Holiday
Ice on the Landing is hosting several holiday events, starting with Chanukah on Ice tonight. At 5:30, a parade of Menorah-topped cars will start at Coolidge Park and end at First Horizon Pavilion, where there will be a lighting of the Ice Menorah, traditional Chanukah food, and ice skating.
Correction
Yesterday, we mentioned the Battle of the Bells between local news stations is tomorrow, Dec. 18 — but it turns out the battle is already underway, and each station gets a different day at Hamilton Place Mall. Local 3 News is tomorrow, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Support your favorite station by donating online.
Watch
Two questions: Do you need a laugh, and do you have 36 seconds? Comedian Josh Stiteler just dropped this little ditty about Chattanooga, and it delivers. Between it and duo Austin & Colin’s catchy song over the summer, we’re feeling the love (and the jokes).
Mailbag
New NOOGAtoday readers have continued to share their favorite restaurants, including Courtney C., who loves Attack of the Tatsu; James R., who mentioned Pickle Barrel as one of his favorites; and Tim A., who says his top choice is Acropolis Grill. If you’re looking for something newer, check out these restaurants.
Number
$7.1 billion. That’s how much philanthropist MacKenzie Scott donated to nonprofits this year. Here in Chattanooga, you don’t need deep pockets to do your part. You can give your time, kindness, or a few hours of hard work to one of these deserving volunteer opportunities instead. (ABC News)
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The Buy
Our favorite way to stay warm in the winter? With a little added heat. We love this heated vest that provides up to 12 hours of continuous heat with a battery that doubles as a power bank. We pair it with these top-rated rechargeable hand warmers on extra chilly days.
In addition to Chanukah on Ice, Ice on the Landing is also hosting the popular Cookies with Mrs. Claus this Saturday, Dec. 20, 10-11 a.m. and Sunday, Dec. 21, 2-3 p.m. Families can decorate cookies, drink hot cocoa, and listen to Mrs. Claus read classic Christmas stories. Grab tickets before they sell out.
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