More than a hundred people gathered at Harlinsdale Farm Tuesday as the process began to symbolically bring the horse back to Franklin.
After three years of planning, fundraising, and public input, the non-profit organization Friends of Franklin Parks broke ground on a multi-purpose equestrian arena just behind the main barn at The Park at Harlinsdale Farm.
Mayor Dr. Ken Moore was at the event and spoke on the city’s history with horses.
“Our catch phrase is ‘Historic Franklin’,” he said. “Part of our significant history is the agricultural community, and part of that agricultural community is focused on the horse.”
Moore believes the creation of the equestrian arena in the park will be great for locals and visitors alike.
“The opportunity to have this fabulous property in the central park of our city and have the horse come back to Harlinsdale means so much to our community,” the Mayor said. “Not only does it mean a lot to our citizens, but also people who will come and visit our community.”
Dr. Monty McInturff, president of the Board of Directors for Friends of Franklin Parks, was the face of the event and reminded people they were standing on a historic site.
The 200-acre former horse farm turned city park was subject to attention in recent months as supporters rallied to raise roughly $800,000 dollars to fund the five-acre facility, secure regulatory approval, and get a design and construction team in place. A fundraising goal is set at $1.1 million for the project with a timetable to become operational this summer.
What at one point looked to be a project in doubt is now a project underway.
“This is not a hoax,” McInturff joked with the crowd. “This is really happening. You’re not dreaming.”
Pictured is the lease signing between Friends of Franklin Parks and the City of Franklin on Monday. Seated left to right, Franklin City Administrator Eric Stuckey, Friends of Franklin Parks Board President Dr. Monty McInturff, and Franklin Mayor Dr. Ken Moore. Standings left to right, Friends of Franklin Parks Board Members Zane Martin and Albert Menefee.
