Gov. Bredesen wants to create a new state park in the midstate

[CaroleG]

Gov. Phil Bredesen announced on Tuesday that he wants to build a new state park in Middle Tennessee and a rustic lodge in the east near the Ocoee River.

He said state officials will begin to look for land in Hickman, Maury and Williamson counties, which he identified as areas of rapid growth that are "rich in history and culture." Bredesen said he'd like to see the park completed under his watch, "assuming I'm re-elected."

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Bredesen, during a press conference at a Franklin park, said selecting land for the new state park will be done "quietly" because the area he's looking at is also being eyed by homebuilders and commercial developers.

"I want to begin the process now to identify and preserve a special place in this region where Tennesseans will be able to walk, ride or just enjoy the scenic beauty that defines this region of the state," Bredesen said.


http://www.tennessean.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20061018/NEWS0201/610180402/1001