Speaker Beth Harwell strongly supported funding for park upgrades
(NASHVILLE) — State Representative Paul Sherrell (R-Sparta) announced today that the State Building Commission has officially approved funding for upgrades at Burgess Falls State Park. This investment coincides with the 80th anniversary of Tennessee State Parks, and the monies will be used to replace trails and trail bridges.
The Burgess Falls project is part of a $3.3 million initiative to upgrade park facilities throughout Tennessee — including Fall Creek Falls State Park, Justin P. Wilson Cumberland Trail State Park, and Fort Pillow State Park. It was officially approved today by the State Building Commission which oversees construction of all public state buildings and structures. In recent years, the Commission’s responsibility has been expanded to include authority over most improvement and demolition projects of property owned by the state.
“Burgess Falls is one of our most treasured parks in all of Tennessee,” said Representative Sherrell. “It is special to me because my father was born near the grounds, and many of my childhood memories were created at Burgess Falls. I am grateful that the State Building Commission is making this investment in our community; it guarantees that future generations will be able to enjoy the beauty of the Upper Cumberland region.”
Located on the Falling Water River, Burgess Falls State Park is noted for its natural beauty and four waterfalls that cascade down from over 250 feet in elevation. The Falling Water River was originally used to generate hydroelectric power for the City of Cookeville from 1928-1944. The territory was later designated a 
Tennessee State Natural Area in 1973.
Tennessee House Speaker Beth Harwell (R-Nashville) — a member of the State Building Commission — was a strong supporter of this critical project and encouraged the commission to approve the necessary funding.
“Projects like this are vital in preserving some of our state’s most precious natural resources,” said Speaker Harwell. “I am proud of my colleagues for coming together to approve this important funding, and I thank Representative Sherrell for his dedication to serving his community and our great state.”
Paul Sherrell serves as a member of the House Criminal Justice and House Health Committee, as well as the House Health Subcommittee. He lives in Sparta and represents House District 43, which includes White, Grundy, and part of Warren Counties. He can be reached by email at Rep.Paul.Sherrell@capitol.tn.gov or by calling (615) 741-1963.
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