A boutique hotel with 80-90 rooms is the latest proposal for a key riverfront parcel by the Walnut Street Bridge.
Officials of Vision Hospitality on Monday night presented plans for the site at Walnut, Aquarium Way (Second) and Riverfront Parkway that was long in use for dentists offices.
Initial plans call for a six-story hotel with two floors of parking.
Entrances are off Walnut Street and Aquarium Way.
Drew Hibbard, director of investments for the Chattanooga-based firm, said the hotel would likely include a plaza and fine dining restaurant near the bridge, which is one of the city's top visitor draws and a favorite of locals.
He said all parking would be by valet, and he said those handling the valet parking would provide added security for the area.
A swimming pool is shown at the rear. There may be a spa and art gallery, it was stated.
Mr. Hibbard stressed that the group has its roots here, and he said he and Craig Peavy of Riverstreet Architecture said they run the bridge regularly.
Mr. Hibbard told a group gathered at Hunter Museum, "If we build something nasty here, we are going to hear about it forever."
He said the guests would provide a boost to local businesses, including the nearby Bluff View Art District.
Mr. Hibbard said the plan is to go before the Planning Commission this fall.
Earlier, the hotel group filed a request for a Fairfield Inn at the site. But that was quickly shot down.
Vision Hospitality is the most active hotel building firm in the nation with eight projects currently in progress. But this would be the group's first boutique hotel.