Red Bay officials, residents looking to add park in town

By Staff
Nathan Strickland
RED BAY- City officials hosted a meeting Thursday evening to discuss plans to put a park on the west side of town.
The city has proposed an urban park be constructed on top of the empty lot that once housed Fred King Clothing Store on the corner of 4th Avenue and 2nd Street.
Red Bay Mayor Bobby Forsythe said the city has responded “aggressively,” sending 94 letters and producing 112 signatures on a petition in support of the idea to build Red Bay Heritage Park on the lot.
The city and the park’s supporters have requested funds for the project from the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs.
North Alabama Council of Local Governments (NACOLG) representative Kenneth Brooks ironed out all the details during the public hearing. He said the property still requires appraisal and that he is working to help the city follow proper procedures in applying for state funds.
NACOLG also helps administer ADECA funds locally.
The public hearing hosted a total of 15 people who listened intently to ideas and suggestions on how to improve the look of the town.
The deadline for a decision is set for Feb. 1. The Red Bay City Council will meet on Monday, Jan. 18 at 7 p.m. in City Hall to discuss and vote whether or not to move forward with the project.