The Ringgold City Council voted unanimously Feb. 9 to honor long-serving elected official Mayor Joe Barger, who initially took office on the city council in 1968 becoming Mayor in 1976. He previously announced he would not seek re-election when his term is over in December. In response to the motion, Mayor Barger said he would prefer the council not to name the bridge after him.
“For years, the Mayor has ended efforts to honor him when they were brought up because he has not sought that type of recognition,” said Council member Randall Franks, who sponsored the effort.
“It is time we pay homage to him for what he has done.”
The Ringgold pedestrian bridge connects access between Ringgold's historic Main Street shopping district and Depot across Nashville Street to additional parking and other businesses. According to City Manager Dan Wright, the approximately $300,000 project, which began construction in January, is a joint effort of the City of Ringgold and Catoosa County. "A date for completion is not yet set due to pending utility work," said Mr. Wright.
Mr. Franks also asked the council to approve the placement of the bridge bronze plaque mounted on a stone marker on the Depot side of the bridge. “The city normally places a small plaque with the basic information about a large infrastructure project highlighting those involved,” he said. “Instead the council approved the placement of a large bronze plaque similar to those used at various music halls of fame including an embossed image of the Mayor and a couple of paragraphs highlighting his distinguished service to the city since 1968.”
According to Mr. Franks, the city will share $500 towards the cost since it will include the information it normally includes, but an estimated $2,000 or slightly more must be raised for the plaque and stone marker honoring Mayor Joe Barger.
“I am hopeful that residents wishing to thank the Mayor for all he has done for our city may contribute towards the effort,” Mr. Franks said. “I am hopeful students from our areas schools and churches might initiate a change drive and take the opportunity to learn about one of our long-standing elected officials in the process.”
Checks may be sent to City of Ringgold, 150 Tennessee Street, Ringgold, Ga. 30736 and designated for the Barger Marker.