White County Event Park gets partial funding

CLEVELAND - The much talked-about White County Event Park, which will be located behind the White County Courthouse in Cleveland, received most of its funding during a meeting of the White County Commissioners Monday.

Charles Black Construction Co. of Cleveland was selected as the low bidder out of six companies submitting bids. The county and Charles Black Construction were able to trim the overall cost of the project down to $850,000.

Following a lengthy discussion, commissioners agreed to use $550,000 from the county's hotel/motel tax to help fund the project and in doing so called on the City of Cleveland to, as the commissioners put it, "step up to the plate," and help fund the project. The park will be located in the city, and city businesses will benefit from it.

Commissioners say if the city doesn't come forward with funding they will have to look at other sources to complete the project.

The event park, which will include a performance stage, will used for community events and festivals, as well as the county's farmers market during the summer.

During a recent work session, commissioners said the White County Veterans Memorial will be moved from the front of the courthouse to the site to allow more room for community observances.

Bounded by Brook Street, East Kytle Street (Highway 115), Quillian Street, and Underwood Street, the vacant property formerly was home to House of Tyrol.

Also on Monday, commissioners approved a naming contest for this park, with a $100 prize.