The Walker County Development Authority (WCDA) moved forward with plans this week to put the former Coats American property in Rossville on the market. The WCDA issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) from area business leaders and others to purchase the eight acre site.
In addition to submitting a monetary offer, potential buyers should describe their plans for the property, including anticipated job creation and how the 300,000 square foot building on the grounds would be revitalized. A document verifying a potential buyer's financial ability to purchase and develop the property should also be included.
The Coats American site is adjacent to the former Peerless Mill, which was recently purchased for redevelopment. It is located two miles from Interstate 24, eight miles from the Chattanooga Airport and within 30 miles of over 600,000 people. The property at 122 Maple Street features up to 10 gigabit per second fiber optic Internet access, sewer and parking. The current building configuration includes three phase power, varied ceiling heights and multiple loading docks.
The WCDA chose to issue the RFP after being contacted by several potential developers. Robert Wardlaw, WCDA Chair, expressed an interest in making a final decision to sell based on what makes sense for the city of Rossville's future.
RFP documentation must be submitted to the WCDA by Feb. 28, and will be reviewed at the Authority's March 13 meeting. Submission guidelines are available on the WCDA and Walker County Government websites, or by contacting Larry Brooks, WCDA executive director, at (423) 240-1378 or l.brooks@walkerga.us.