Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp today announced the county has been awarded $245,000 from the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation to revive a 250-foot segment of Stringer’s Branch at Redding Road Park. This will enable substantial restoration efforts, transforming the compromised stream flowing through the heart of Red Bank into a public amenity for residents to enjoy.
“Hamilton County’s natural beauty is known throughout the South, but it’s our responsibility to be good stewards and protect our natural resources.
This grant will enhance Redding Road Park into a community asset that we hope the Red Bank community will take great pride in,” said Mayor Wamp. “Our aggressive pursuit of grant dollars has once again paid dividends, enhancing a community asset in one of Tennessee’s most unique small cities.”
This Stream and Wetland Restoration Grant will enable the county to restore approximately 250 linear feet of concrete channel on Stringers Branch while adding approximately 50 feet to the stream. The restored stream will be placed into a conservation easement for permanent stream protection. Since the stream is entirely concrete with little to no resource value, the naturalization and habitat creation should result in water quality improvements.
“I am proud of my department for seeking and securing the funding to fast-track the revitalization of an underutilized park that has the potential to create a gathering space for the community,” said Nathan Janeway, director of development services. “I look forward to working with leadership in Red Bank to improve water quality in the natural environment.”
“Tennessee is committed to preserving our natural beauty, and one of our key efforts is ensuring the cleanliness of the water flowing into the Tennessee River,” said State Senator Bo Watson. “I am thankful to TDEC for investing in Hamilton County enabling us to breathe new life into a community asset.”
The Hamilton County Board of Commissioners approved the application, acceptance and required match for this grant at their meeting Dec. 20, 2023. The grant requires a 20 percent match from Hamilton County.