The Commons to The Hill completed its eight-day, 166-mile trek Wednesday afternoon at Tennessee's Capitol. A walk that stepped off in Collegedale concluded on the western steps of the Volunteer State’s Capitol after eight days, 166 miles and lots of work.
With the goal to raise awareness of the regional center being built in eastern Hamilton County that will serve as an open air market, recreational hub near the greenway, educational destination with classrooms and an eventual amphitheater with a soundstage accommodating up to 5,000 attendees, Executive Director David Barto and team had finished the walk but the journey has just begun.
Tennessee’s Assistant Commissioner of Rural Development for ECD Amy New was among state officials greeting the walkers who acknowledged that Tennessee’s communities played a role in recruiting businesses and business expansion efforts. “Your talk talks and your walk talks, but your walk talks louder than your talk talks,” said Ms. New, citing a John Maxwell quote in praise of the walkers and for the asset coming to southeast Tennessee. “These efforts are bring true value to our communities.”
Placing a premium on healthy activities, The Commons has adopted the tagline, “For a healthier southeast Tennessee.” With trail running, biking, fitness classes planned and other options to take in the area’s great outdoors, the 60,000 square foot space will be more than a park, but a facility of play and perform.
Valerie Nagoshiner, chief of staff to Tennessee Commissioner of Health Dr. John Dreyzehner, noted The Commons role in the Governor’s Foundation for Health and Wellness and the state’s Healthier Tennessee initiative, “Community partnerships are key in serving our citizens," he said. "The Commons will certainly support the governor’s emphasis for Tennesseans to live healthier lives.”
The open air market will facilitate local farmers to share and increase access for consumers to regionally grown produce and fresh food items. Touting the Department of Agriculture’s promotion of local products, Debbie Bell, the marketing director of Agricultural Development Division, linked The Commons to the “Pick Tennessee Products” initiative, “We look forward to having another way to support our family farmers who provide quality goods to their neighbors.”
The Commons will have an educational curriculum to support local schools with hands-on learning regarding plant growth, sustainability, area wildlife and making healthy food and behavioral choices. The facility to be located minutes off of I-75 north on Apison Pike will become a destination for area schoolchildren.
Tennessee Rep. Marc Gravitt (HD 30, Chattanooga) noted his support in welcoming the walkers to Capitol Hill and distinguished this project’s regional value. “No other venue exists with such a variety of community activities that will serve families throughout eastern Hamilton County and even western Bradley. What a great resource for teachers and parents to have for field trips and educational outings with an organized curriculum.”
Key attendees:
Rep. Marc Gravitt (HD 30, Chattanooga)
Assistant Comm of ECD Rural Development Amy New
COS to TN Comm of Health Valerie Nagoshiner
Debbie Bell, Dir of Development Div Marketing of TN Dept of Ag
Greer Gill, Dept of Ag Marketing Specialist
Mayor Katie Lamb, Collegedale
Commissioner Debbie Baker, Collegedale
Chairman of the Board, Jill Howell, Collegedale Tomorrow Foundation