NASHVILLE, Tenn. — State Rep. Ed Butler, R-Rickman, State Rep. John Ragan, R-Oak Ridge and State Rep. Monty Fritts, R-Kingston, announced $1.27 million in state funding was awarded to make improvements at several area parks.
The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) will administer the grants through the Local Parks and Recreation Fund (LPRF), which was approved by the 113th General Assembly this year in the 2024-25 state budget.
“Local parks are essential to the health and wellbeing of our communities,” the lawmakers said in a joint statement. “These investments will improve facilities while also providing more opportunities for citizens to get outside and be active. We can’t wait to see the positive impact these grants will have on future generations in Anderson and Roane Counties.”
Four municipalities were chosen to receive funding:
- City of Rocky Top (Anderson Co.): $566,000
- City of Norris (Anderson Co.): $375,000
- City of Harriman (Roane Co.): $300,000
- Town of Oliver Springs (Roane Co.): $29,000
The city of Rocky Top plans to make various upgrades to the Rocky Top Community Center Park. Some of the projects include upgrading the restroom facility and replacing a large bleacher and press box structure.
The city of Norris will build new tennis and pickleball courts along with a basketball court at Norris Memorial Park. There will also be upgrades to the restroom facilities.
Harriman city leaders plan to make improvements at the Harriman Community Center and Riverfront Park. The Community Center will receive new gymnasium flooring and HVAC system, along with paving the parking lot. The Riverfront Park will get new lighting along the walking trail, and if funding allows, safety cameras and parking upgrades.
The town of Oliver Springs was awarded funding for various projects at Arrowhead Park including ADA compliance updates, security light replacements and installing WiFi nodes.
The LPRF program provides state funding to match local government investments for recreation projects and the purchase of land for parks, natural areas, greenways and recreational facilities.
For more information on the LPRF program and how to apply, visit the Office of Outdoor Recreation website here.
Ed Butler represents District 41 which includes Overton, Morgan and part of Anderson, Roane and Fentress Counties.
John Ragan represents District 33 which includes part of Anderson County.
Monty Fritts represents District 32 which includes part of Roane and Loudoun counties.
