Carter County Budget Committee denies request to support Hampton playground
Published 10:27 am Tuesday, February 14, 2023
- Star Photo/Robert Sorrell Wes Bradley asked the committee to approve up to $30,000 to repair a playground from the city of Elizabethton to be placed at the park, which is located along U.S. Highway 19E near Hampton High School.
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BY ROBERT SORRELL
Star Correspondent
The Carter County Budget Committee denied a proposal Monday to place a playground at the Green Bridge Landing Park.
Wes Bradley, a member of the Appalachian Paddling Enthusiasts, presented the proposal to the committee. He asked the committee to approve up to $30,000 to repair a playground from the city of Elizabethton to be placed at the park, which is located along U.S. Highway 19E near Hampton High School.
He said the city agreed to provide the playground, which was located at Riverside Park near the Carmon Dugger Sports Complex. The playground equipment needs several repairs and the land at the park site in Hampton needs to be prepared, Bradley said.
Bradley said he obtained a quote to repair the equipment for $13,164. He said other costs would cover the preparation of the playground area.
The park, a collaborative effort between Appalachian Paddling Enthusiasts and the Carter County Parks and Recreation Board, was developed as a spot for kayakers using the Doe River. It features a changing station for kayakers, as well as a walking path and picnic area. Bradley said it’s also a popular swimming spot for families.
Several committee members voiced concerns about safety at the proposed playground, particularly its close proximity to U.S. Highway 19E and the waters of the Doe River.
Commissioner Angie Odom said she felt it was too close to speeding vehicles that would pass by the playground, endangering children at the park.
“It’s a really dangerous place,” said Commissioner Donnie Cable, who was also concerned about the playground being close to the four-lane highway.
Commissioner Robert Acuff said the county could be held liable if anything were to happen at the playground.
Odom, who also said a handicap accessible playground is needed in the county, said the playground could be used elsewhere.
No motion was made to approve the playground.
Bradley also provided committee members with a brief update on the Hampton Watershed Trails. Bradley thanked the commission for previously providing $75,000 for expansion of the trails. He said that work has been completed and there are efforts to further expand the trail system.
“We almost doubled the size,” Bradley said.
Bradley said volunteers have been working to maintain the trails.
