Oak Ridge North approves $162,617 for police department equipment

Oak Ridge North City Council approved two purchases of new equipment for its police department for a total of $162,617 at its Oct. 10 regular meeting.

The purchases will provide the police department with two new vehicles and emergency vehicle equipment as well as 20 tasers, cartridges, chargers and training equipment.

The council also unanimously approved $54,370.06 for a new city sign at the intersection of Robinson Road and Patsy Lane, a part of the Teddy Bear Park project, using funds from the American Rescue Plan Act.

During the project, the park will receive new play structures, swings and a percussion play area and will be resurfaced with a rubber ground for wheelchair accessibility.

The entire project is estimated to cost $264,127, according to previous reporting by Community Impact.

James Corn, the city’s public works director, said the park will be closed for December starting Nov. 28 for demolition of the current play structure.

Corn also said tree and shrubbery clearing along Robinson is now complete, and the city can get its plans for the railroad crossing ready for design.

The city’s next meeting will be held Oct. 24 at 7 p.m.