Once known as the Montclair Golf Club, the course closed in 2007 and has remained largely untouched ever since. Over the years, several development proposals, including apartment projects, sparked concern among residents and were ultimately rejected. Now, the City of Chattanooga is moving forward with plans to preserve part of the property, using a portion of what they have purchased for $900,000 with the goal of creating a public park. For those who have championed the area’s preservation, the city’s move signals real momentum. 

It’s easy to see why the community has worked so hard to protect this property from development. Open pastureland, a cattail-lined pond, and a towering post oak known locally as a “champion tree” give the area a peaceful, natural feel. Reminders of its golf course history like the old markers and a stone sign for Hole No. 7, still remain. It also borders Hamilton County’s Walden’s Ridge Park which can promote opportunities for expanded access to trails and outdoor recreation on Signal Mountain. While city officials note that the agreement is still in the letter-of-intent stage, many residents see this as meaningful progress toward protecting one of Chattanooga’s most treasured open spaces.