I am posting this to see if there is any interest to in Smyth County, namely Marion to develop some type of park similar to what there is in Bristol with Sugar Hollow Park, and what Abingdon is creating shortly.  I don’t understand why Smyth County doesn’t see the benefit of having a facility like this.  My thoughts are that it could certainly be done for about the present value of the cost poured into Fire Truck 5 or 6 years ago.  There are perfect spots for such a development, and the town has been in negotiations in buying some of this land before, but those fell through.  We can’t seem to have much progressive thought on the council.  Marion and Chilhowie, have done great jobs in downtown revitalization efforts, why can’t the dedication and resources used there be summoned again.  An article was done by the Smyth Co. News several years ago comparing downtown Marion now and 10 years ago, the differences were amazing.  So it can be done by the town, and I am willing to bet there is federal funding via grants, etc. available if the research is done.  At least there are grants available to build a parking deck which we were poised to do, I don’t know where that stands now, but which is more important to the future of this community a parking deck that will be full only for the Christmas parade and Chili cook-off’s.  Or a park with full size, top notch atheletic fields that can host tournaments to bring money in for the town or county, promote a family atmosphere, etc.  The Women’s Softball Field and adjacent park, is not even a quarter of what we could have if the town were to dedicate itself to providing the facility.

What is Abingdon creating shortly?

Abingdon has approved the building of a new park to house baseball, softball, and other sport activities.  I don’t know exactly what the layout of the facility will be, the only information I get is what’s in the paper in regards to what they want it to provide.

Gomer,
You’re right.  There is no reason that this town couldn’t have a decent facility for the kids who don’t play football.
We have no running track for our high school track team.  Our high shcool tennis facilities have no spectator capabilities, and the high school soccer facilities are a joke.
As taxpayers, we can’t even use most of the facilities that do exist. 
There have been extensive studies done at several major universities in the past that demonstrate the need for these type of facilities if an area wants to attract business and corporate growth.
Not long ago, I was having a discussion with someone who said that the reality in Smyth County is that the 5 or so families that control the communities don’t want growth.
I don’t know how true that is, but who knows.
I would support an effort to build this park.
Thanks for bringing it up

The proof’s in the pudding.  There is NO growth in Smyth County.