Funds approved for restoring Park Road
Park Road may have collapsed due to erosion, but the Anderson County Commission now has approved funding to fix it.
The commission unanimously voted to approve $395,000 for the stabilization of Park Road near the entrance to Anderson County Park along Norris Lake.
County Finance Director Robert Holbrook said the county needs to repair both the road and the bank erosion below it.
He said the county hopes to fix the problem while the water level is still low for spring.
The road collapsed partially in 2025.
Drivers since then have had to take a detour to reach boat launches and a picnic area. Commissioner Tracy Wandell said the area is set to host a fishing tournament.
Commissioner Robert McKamey made the motion and Commissioner Anthony Allen seconded. Commissioner Sabra Beauchamp was absent.
The commission voted to take $85,000 from Sports Gaming Tax funding and $310,000 from previously unassigned fund balance to pay for the Park Road repairs.
“This is a safety issue,” said Commissioner Chad McNabb. “This is dangerous.”
Other budget items included:
• $700,000 for a bridge replacement on Bridges Road over Byrams Ford Creek.
• $20,000 in unassigned fund balance for evaluations recommending areas of improvement for the Anderson County Animal Shelter.
• $306,500 for asphalt, other charges and other contracted services for the Highway Department.
• $445,000 for rental equipment, crushed stone and and fuel for the Highway Department.
• $17,500 in civil engineering services for a new Emergency Medical Services training facility.
