Urban Story Ventures has unveiled plans for a $350 million mixed-use district at the Bend, with building work scheduled to commence in 2027.

The open-air riverfront development is being delivered in partnership with retail firm Hill Partners and architecture practice Perkins&Will. Designed as a walkable destination along the Tennessee River, the scheme will feature Class A office space, residential units, shops, and dining establishments. Active discussions are already underway with regional and national brands spanning the retail, lifestyle, and hospitality sectors.

Jimmy White, president and managing partner of Urban Story Ventures, commented:

“This type of open-air, experiential development does not exist in the Chattanooga market and will have aspects of The Wharf in Washington, DC and Biltmore Village in Asheville, NC, all right here in Downtown Chattanooga. It’s exactly what we have been missing and will have tremendous economic impact on the city and county.”

He added: “Think of the stores or restaurants you wish Downtown Chattanooga had – now we will have some of them.”

Perkins&Will will manage the master planning and architectural design, building upon the original Dover Kohl framework. Meanwhile, Hill Partners will co-lead site transformation efforts with Urban Story Ventures.

Robert H. Spratt, Jr., President of Hill Partners, Inc., stated:

“We’re incredibly excited to help bring a truly exceptional retail and dining experience to Chattanooga. For more than four decades, our team has executed very successful strategic plans, curated best‑in‑class tenants, and created memorable places that resonate with their communities. The Bend represents a rare opportunity to apply that experience at a remarkable riverfront site, and we’re proud to help shape a destination that will elevate how people live, shop, and gather in downtown Chattanooga for generations to come.”

Beyond initial construction, the district is projected to create more than 1,000 jobs and produce over $100 million in gross sales. The scheme complements a previously announced $300 million venue being built by Venu Holding Corporation at the 120-plus-acre site, which is due for completion in late 2028.

Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp added:

“This is another important piece of the vision for the Bend and the expansion of Chattanooga’s riverfront. Bringing new restaurants, retail and jobs to the Westside will reactivate a corridor that has played a major role in our city’s economic history.”

Subject to preleasing progress, completion is slated for autumn 2028.