ROME TOWNSHIP – Plans to continue the renovation of the Old Locks and Dam 27 site will likely go into effect this September, as village council intends to transform the property into a scenic, historical and comfortable public park.

Monday, July 24, 2000

ROME TOWNSHIP – Plans to continue the renovation of the Old Locks and Dam 27 site will likely go into effect this September, as village council intends to transform the property into a scenic, historical and comfortable public park.

"The Locks and Dam site is used for boat launching and as a public park," township trustee J.B. Finlay said. "There is probably 1,000 feet of (usable) riverfront property and one can just imagine its potential."

The board of trustees wants to take the site, located about three miles north of Proctorville on Ohio 7, and develop a quality park along the Ohio River.

"I think we all envision the same thing when we think of public parks – clean picnic shelters, a walking track, a basketball court and the like," Finlay said about trustees’ plans.

The site’s restoration was initiated in 1999.

"I think we’ll probably start work in September," Finlay said.

This year’s efforts will focus on the installation of new signs, along with concrete repairs and especially new fencing, he said.

"Some of the fencing around the perimeter is all cable, rusted and frayed, and someone could easily get hurt," he said.

Finlay explained that much of last year’s efforts from volunteers and donations have greatly increased the quality of the site.

"There was much community support," he said.

Previous improvements to the site include the removal of three large dead trees, flushed storm sewer lines, the replacement of over 60 feet of clogged drain lines, the overall cleanup of broken glass and trash, removal of weeds and heavy brush and the installation of several signs, according to a letter sent to the Lawrence County Commission by Finlay.

"It’s a much cleaner area compared to the way it was two years ago," Finlay said.

"We need a lot of volunteers – people that can help make phone calls, fund-raising and manual labor," Finlay said. "If we could have just a fraction of the people that launch the boats from the boat dock, it would go a long way in improving the park."

A portion of this year’s Nature Works grant, previously awarded to the village, will be used in renovating the site, Finlay said.

"We’re also going to solicit from local businesses in the Rome Township area," he added.

Finlay said he believes many people in the community are unaware of the site restoration and what the commission wants to accomplish.

"It’s hard to get the word out," he said. "The community has been very quiet in that regard."

Greater community interest will produce greater results, Finlay added.

As of yet, no bids have been awarded to any particular contractor, Finlay said.

However, a benefit gospel sing has been scheduled for Aug. 5, at the Old Locks and Dam, he said. Groups include Family of Prayer, Blantons, Down Home Gospel, Under the Sun and The Hurst.

Contributions to improve the park will be accepted.