Soddy Daisy is among cities awarded one of Hamilton County’s Leaning Into Communities grants. The grant matching program partners with small cities and towns to revitalize local parks, green spaces, and community gathering spaces. The first round of projects slated for funding by the county was part of an initiative introduced by County Mayor Weston Wamp.
With support from County Commissioner Gene-o Shipley, the city applied for the one-time grant for up to $250,000 that would provide funding to improve the functionality, beauty, and visibility of Holly Park. The proposed upgrades to Holly Park directly support Soddy-Daisy’s goals to improve the quality of life for residents, provide welcoming public spaces, and promote tourism centered on the city’s natural waterfront assets.
“This program is a win for Soddy-Daisy,” said District 1 Commissioner Shipley, who represents the Soddy Daisy area. “It gives our community the chance to enhance a valuable public space with the county’s support behind it, and I’m glad to see us working together on improvements that will benefit local families for years to come.”
At the core of this revitalization is a series of infrastructure upgrades designed to support boating and tournament fishing - an economic opportunity identified through public feedback and regional benchmarking. Key upgrades include the installation of an additional L-shaped dock to support more boaters, widening the boat ramp to reduce wait times, and adding a new fish weigh-in stand to support catch-and-release events and make Holly Park a viable host for regional fishing tournaments.
Officials said, "This project will have a direct and meaningful impact on the residents, families, and visitors who enjoy Holly Park for boating, fishing, picnicking, and casual leisure. By improving the boat ramp and expanding docking capacity, the city aims to reduce congestion and improve safety for boaters, especially during high-traffic weekends. Additionally, more shaded seating areas, cozy picnic spots, and the introduction of ADA-friendly bathroom facilities will make the park more inviting and functional for non-boaters as well."
“As mayor of Soddy Daisy, I would like to thank the Hamilton County Commission, Mayor Weston Wamp, and District 1 Commissioner Gene-o Shipley for selecting the city of Soddy Daisy for the Leaning Into Communities grant for the Holly Park renovation,” said Jim Coleman. “This will allow our residents to have a better place to enjoy the park and water way.
"These enhancements will create a more inviting and functional space for boaters, fishers, families, and visitors -transforming Holly Park into a high-use destination for regional events and community connection. These efforts align with goals identified in the city’s 2020 Comprehensive Plan, which recognized that the unique geography of Soddy Daisy - its lakes, mountains, and river systems - offers major tourism and economic potential."