Red Bank High School will be getting a $1.5 million makeover on its athletic facilities that were termed "abysmal."
Commissioner David Sharpe said the facilities have not gotten improvements since the 1970s. Commissioner Steve Highlander said they are in the same bad shape as when he coached there.
The county plans to shift funds to Red Bank that had initially been planned for a multi-purpose/play gym at Rivermont Elementary School. That project was shelved when it was decided to build a new North River Elementary that would include Rivermont students.
Also, County Mayor Weston Wamp on Wednesday unveiled a series of investments "aimed at helping modernize our public school athletic facilities."
The new investments are highlighted by six tennis courts with lights at Signal Mountain Middle-High School and a brand new track at East Ridge High School.
County Mayor Wamp said, “Over the past two years, we have made it a priority to invest in public school athletic facilities as they are the front door of our schools. This latest investment will elevate two more athletic complexes to rival those of any private school in the area, becoming a point of pride for communities across Hamilton County.”
These projects are funded with unspent dollars from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). By redirecting surplus funds, Hamilton County is ensuring no federal dollars are returned."
County Commissioner Mike Chauncey said, “The community has eagerly awaited this project and I am proud to have worked alongside Mayor Wamp to bring a new recreational asset to our East Ridge schools.
“I’m excited the students at East Ridge will finally have a new track to enhance their athletic experience, host community events, and build school spirit.”
Commissioner Chip Baker said, “Parents on Signal Mountain have long advocated for this project and I’m thrilled to see it finally get the green light.
“The community has been instrumental in this process and I’m excited all residents of Signal Mountain will benefit from this.”
The unspent ARPA dollars will fund the following projects:
1. East Ridge High School track completion: $350,000
2. Signal Mountain High School tennis courts completion: $350,000
3. Community Coordinator at Tyner Academy: $100,000
4. Bakewell Community Center track repavement: $25,000
5. Hamilton County Schools Nurse Practitioner Program: $18,791