Murphy – Local residents are concerned about infrastructure additions at the boat ramp and parking lot off Hiwassee Street, across from the Murphy Fire & Rescue Department downtown.
The Freedom Boat Club, a sort-of time share for boat owners, set up shop at the Tennessee Valley Authority-owned facility over the past month, installing a floating boat dock and small office with a pontoon boat parked beside it, ready for use by Freedom Boat Club members.
The source of confusion could stem from signs placed beside the floating dock identifying “member parking.”
Murphy Town Manager Chad Simons reassures the public that the boat ramp and its entire parking facility are open to the public with no charge – despite the signs stating “member parking.”
He said the boat ramp is owned by the TVA, and that the Town of Murphy and Cherokee County contract for public use of the boat ramp and parking lot.
Chris Raxter asked a question on Murphy Mouth 2.0 on Facebook about a business opening at the public boat ramp that triggered 32 responses and 71 comments, some angry and others inquisitive.
Mayor Tim Radford, on his official Facebook page, posted pictures of the infrastructure and commented, “Was happy to see so many people enjoying the new boat dock across from Murphy Fire Department.”
His post received 191 likes and loves along with six shares.