The city of Ringgold's Clark Park on Robin Road near downtown is open and ready for local residents to get out and enjoy the warm weather. The city of Ringgold leased the 24.6-acre green space from the Clark Family. The area was used last October for the 150th Battle of Ringgold Gap Civil War Reenactment and is a place that Director of Downtown Development, Joseph Brellenthin sees as a place for residents and their families to enjoy the outdoors.
"We've had exceptional weather this season and we look forward to seeing folks use the area for anything from kites to picnics to biking," said Mr. Brellenthin. The park is also acts as an extension to the Creek Walk and the Richard Taylor Nature Trail which currently extends to the City Water Plant on Depot street or for a total distance of approximately 1.5 miles. The entire trail system passes the Ringgold Recreation Area on Emberson, the Martha Denton Pool, the Richard Taylor Trail, a portion of South Chickamauga Creek, and terminates behind the Walgreens. "Downtown Ringgold has a very active jogging community and we always want to remind people that we are connecting downtown to the forests and green spaces around the city," said Mr. Brellenthin
"Now that spring is here, our crews have been working to get our outdoor areas ready for everyone coming to enjoy the nicer weather," said Director of Ringgold Parks and Recreation Stephen Middlebrooks. "There is a parking lot just behind Walgreens on Robin Road and we keep a mowed greenway walk to the creek.".
Given the proximity to wide parts of the creek, Clark Park has also become a favorite spot for fishermen. "Large mouth bass, catfish and bluegill" said Mr. Middlebrooks, "my favorite is the warmouths since they are a great fighting fish so it's exciting to have that so close to town."
The xity has plans to install a canoe launch on South Chickamauga Creek with the goal of connecting a larger "blue way" system that follows the creek to its terminus in the Tennessee River in Chattanooga.
For more information about the Clark Park or other events and services offered by the City of Ringgold go to www.cityofringgold.com or call 706 935-3061.