Governor Bredesen Announces Enhancement Grant for Monroe County

Nashville, Tenn. — Governor Phil Bredesen announced today that the state will provide Monroe County with an enhancement grant in the amount of $92,400 to assist with the construction of the Monroe County Courthouse Sidewalk Project.

“The town of Madisonville is in the rare position of already having a good pedestrian system in place, but many sidewalks are in need of repair,” said Bredesen. “I am pleased the state is able to provide funds to help keep this city’s sidewalk system functional for everyone.”

Governor Bredesen recognized State Representative Russell Johnson and State Senator Randy McNally for their help in securing the grant.

“The additional sidewalks at the county courthouse will serve a large portion of Monroe County’s population,” said Senator McNally. “It will also provide a safe and accessible path for our disabled citizens.”

“This project will provide invaluable assistance to the members of the community as well as tourists who visit downtown Madisonville,’ said Representative Johnson.

The grant is made possible through a federally funded program administered by the Tennessee Department of Transportation.

“In the 1990’s Congress set up a grant system of funding for activities designed to strengthen the cultural, aesthetic and environmental aspects of the nation’s transportation system,” said TDOT Commissioner Gerald Nicely. “These grant funded activities include historic transportation facilities, bike and pedestrian trails, landscaping and many other non-traditional transportation projects.”

According to the grant application, the Monroe County Courthouse Sidewalk Project will replace and improve 315 feet of sidewalk that will completely encircle the courthouse, providing a convenient transportation link to area recreational, institutional and commercial sites.

City Officials expect approximately 38,961 people will use and benefit from the Monroe County Courthouse Sidewalk Project.