Cliff Hightower, Chattanooga Times Free Press

Following her speech to the Tennessee chapter of the American Planning Agency and promotion of her book Megaregions: Planning for Global Competitiveness, Dr. Catherine Ross warned Chattanooga about the potential changes associated with the location of the Volkswagen plant on the surrounding community. Strong zoning laws are vital to protect the community assets. According to Ross, the auto plant could affect everything from public safety, transportation, education, and the health and welfare of residents.