Tazewell sets Sept. 19 bid deadline for Clinch River Pavilion and approves applying $50,000 in local CROP funds

Town staff told council Sept. 9 that an RFP for the Clinch River Pavilion and Farmers Market was advertised Aug. 19, a mandatory pre‑bid was held Aug. 26 and bids are due Sept. 19 at 2:00 p.m.; the town expects to review bids and announce an award during the week of Sept. 22.

Staff described a two‑phase project: phase one covers pavilion construction and site work; phase two (bathroom and prep kitchen) was included as an add‑alternate so the council can award them if budget permits. The town’s preliminary budget figures were discussed in light of bids and contingency planning.

Councilors pressed staff for timing on related projects: waterline work requires pressure testing and health‑department approvals before customer hookups and final paving can occur. Staff said a pressure test and additional health testing were scheduled; if they pass, hookups and paving can proceed, with staff estimating about four hookups per day and about 25 customers remaining in the project area.

After questions about project sequencing and limited local grant resources, the council voted to apply for $50,000 in Cumberland Plateau regional opportunity (CROP) funds to be used as a match for larger grants and implementation work for the pavilion. Council asked staff to prepare the application promptly with the intent to ratify the application at the October meeting if necessary.

Council emphasized finishing active projects (such as the pavilion and waterline work) before taking on additional multi‑year projects elsewhere in North Tazewell, but members also said they support the IDA’s broader revitalization goals.

Bids for the pavilion are due Sept. 19; staff expects to review bids Sept. 22 and will bring a recommendation to council.