Whether it’s new services or hours being offered at your local recreation centers, installation of speed humps or round-a-bouts, revitalization plans to help promote job creation or the widening of a road…District 5 has experienced many improvements in its many neighborhoods. More is yet to come.

Did you know that the airport continues its efforts to beautify the stretch along Lee Highway and have that as the main entrance with lots of green space?

Were you aware that a senior center is located in the Eastgate Town Center, offering amazing programs and a great way to meet new friends? 

Not far from there, North Brainerd has the Brainerd Recreation Center, a facility that local senior Olympians frequent, offering senior programs, longer hours and programs for youth in an effort to combat crime.

Efforts are being made to secure a grocery store in the Wilcox area. A bond has been secured and additional funds are needed from the federal government to build new tunnels in that area...much needed paving and speed humps have been installed. 

Are you familiar with the vast history that took place in the Highway 58 or surrounding areas pertaining to the Trail of Tears, Civil War, even including activity during both World Wars?

Recently, Washington Hills Recreation Center was the first in this area to have a security camera installed. Phase 2 of the South Chickamauga Greenway was completed…3.5 miles from the Hawthorne Street trail head to the Faith Road trail head. 

Many sidewalks and round-a-bouts have been installed in the area. The Highway 58 Revitalization Plan hopes to create new jobs, detailed infrastructure will assist with area flooding and Bonny Oaks Drive will be widened.

Have you noticed that these areas within District 5 have increased police protection? 

In my four years on the City Council, I have been actively working for the residents of the district I represent. I voted against increasing taxes. I voted against annexation. I voted in favor of increasing funds necessary for the Parks & Recreation Department to extend its hours and create more programs for those in and around my community. I promote the additional parking necessary at the city’s softball fields in an effort to bring national leagues to this city and increase our local tax revenue. I support the programs the Education, Arts & Culture Department has created to support and promote our local economy. I voted for a pay raise for general service employees, as they service our community on a daily basis. I intend to continue my efforts to work for the residents of my District and to stand for the people of this city.

Russell Gilbert Chattanooga City Councilman District 5