Hamilton County Commissioners Support Plan for New “Roaring Creek State Park”

Photo Courtesy of McDonald Farm

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Hamilton County Commissioners have moved forward with plans to transfer a significant portion of McDonald Farm in Sale Creek to the state of Tennessee for the development of a new park. The proposal would see approximately 1,300 acres of the historic property, once owned by the family of the late Roy McDonald, a prominent local publisher, designated as Roaring Creek State Park.

In a unanimous vote, the commissioners expressed their support for the initiative by passing a resolution indicating their intent to facilitate any necessary future land transfers for the park project. The proposal, which has been included in the current state budget, remains pending approval from state lawmakers. Governor Bill Lee has allocated over $45 million in his proposed budget to fund the park’s development.

While the resolution marks a strong show of local support, the land transfer process has not yet been finalized. Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp, along with state officials, are still in the process of drafting the official deed. Additionally, legislative approval is required to authorize the allocation of funds and officially establish the park.

The project, still in its planning stages, aims to turn the extensive farmland into a recreational and conservation area that could serve as a new outdoor destination for residents and visitors alike. However, final approval from both county and state authorities is needed before the land transfer and park development can proceed.

SOURCE: Chattanooga Times Free Press