Mayor James Washington is looking to capitalize on Friars Point’s assets.
Washington discussed putting signs around town and recognizing the history, including the fact that Conway Twitty was born in Friars Point, during the July city council meeting. He continued his vision during the August meeting when he brought up the discussion of having a park across the levee adjacent to Friars Point.
“We’re going to try to bring some pride back in the community so that the people will feel a part of this,” Washington said. “We are the only town on this side of Memphis that’s sitting on the river. If anyone wants to see this river, this is the only place we can drive up to.”
Washington said people come to Clarksdale for the blues and there is a trail out to Friars Point, which he hopes to utilize.
“We’re getting ready to do the park with the aid and assistance of our (Coahoma County) board of supervisors,” Washington said.
“It will be able to entertain family outings. If they want to go visit the river or have family outings, it will be a family-setting type park.”
Washington said the park will have devices to look at the river and people may be able to fish on a pier.
“The next step is we will call a community meeting inviting everybody out to a meeting,” Washington said.
Washington said he will ask citizens to join the committee to make the park a reality. A time, date and location for the community meeting is expected to be set during the next city council meeting at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 4.
