Farragut to roll out new (and improved) park amenities this year
from the Town
Three park projects that have been anticipated/needed for years will come to fruition soon, and no one is more excited about them than Parks & Rec director Ron Oestreich.
“We’re really busy right now with new programs and construction projects, but it’s a good busy, and I know that the community appreciates everything we’re working on,” he says.
A brand-new amenity that is scheduled to be completed this fall is access to Red Mill Dam. In August of 2020, the Town received a 6.43-acre parcel that includes Red Mill Dam from an anonymous donor. Turkey Creek runs through the property, and it was dammed to make a forebay, a reservoir that collects water to run equipment like a water wheel. The property is located on the west side of Concord Road, just north of Turkey Creek Road.
While the dam is scenic, it isn’t easily accessible. A small parking lot and pathway will give the public easy access to this historic area. The project, which is currently in the design stage, consists of a 10-stall parking lot and a paved pathway to an overlook of the dam.
“This is a unique park, different from any other property in town. The natural aspect of this area is truly amazing,” says Oestreich.
The Town received a $25,000 Tennessee Dog Park Dash Grant from the Boyd Foundation in 2022, and ground has finally broken on a dog park at McFee Park. The dog park, located on the western edge of the park, will feature two fenced areas, one for small dogs and one for large, as well as installed equipment to help pooches play.
The dog park, which is partially funded by a Local Parks & Recreation Fund (LPRF) Grant from the state, should be completed this summer. A parking lot that opened last fall will serve the dog park as well as the bike trail, and a restroom for both is expected to be completed this fall. These amenities add to what is already an exceptional park, Oestreich says.
“This is a beautiful, community park with many amenities for all ages.”
An upgrade is under way at Mayor Bob Leonard Park — the reconstruction of the Sand Volleyball Complex. The sand courts were constructed in 1996 and haven’t been upgraded since then. Gravel that served as the drainage system became displaced and began working its way to the surface, creating a hazard for players.
The courts have been dug up and drainage tiles are being installed that will divert water away from the complex. The showers that serve the volleyball courts are also getting an upgrade. This much-needed improvement is also partially funded through an LPRF grant.
“From spring to fall, leagues and groups keep the volleyball courts busy. The volleyball complex is one of the most popular amenities at Mayor Bob Leonard Park,” Oestrich says.
