Governor Bredesen Awards National Scenic Byway Grants
Grant to Fund Project in Six West Tennessee Counties

Nashville, Tenn. – Governor Phil Bredesen today announced a $79,179 National Scenic Byway Program grant to the Tennessee Parks and Greenways Foundation to fund the “Transportation Plan for the Mississippi River Natural and Recreational Corridor in Tennessee” project in Lake, Obion, Dyer, Lauderdale, Tipton and Shelby counties.

“Tennessee’s Scenic Byways Program is an important resource in highlighting the beautiful and historical features of our state,” said Governor Phil Bredesen. “The Scenic Byway designation draws attention to these roadways, giving drivers an opportunity to explore a little more of Tennessee’s natural beauty.”

“The goal of this program is to create a distinctive collection of American roads, their stories and treasured places,” said TDOT Commissioner Gerald Nicely. “The national byways distinction along these roadways will help tell Tennessee’s story to those traveling our state.”

The grant provided for the “Transportation Plan for the Mississippi River Natural and Recreational Corridor in Tennessee” project will provide funding for the development of a Corridor Management Plan for the Great River Road.

“Sites along the 3,000 mile Great River Road provide travelers with a chance to learn more about the rich history of our area,” said House Speaker Jimmy Naifeh. “I’m pleased to see this grant awarded for this worthwhile project.”

House Transportation Committee Chairman Phillip Pinion added, “The development of this Corridor Management Plan will help bring attention to the beauty and recreational opportunities in this area of our state.”

“The Mississippi River was the life blood of many Tennessee communities for more than a century,” said Representative Craig Fitzhugh. “This grant will allow us to showcase this history from the lakes of Northwest Tennessee to Memphis in the southwest.”

The Tennessee State Scenic Byways Program is designed to recognize and showcase outstanding cultural, historical, archeological, recreational, natural and scenic resources along Tennessee’s public highways. The program supports organizations in their quest for National Scenic Byway funding and recognition.

The six grants awarded today total $436,639 and encompass projects affecting 16 counties in Tennessee. The grants are made possible through a federally funded program administered by TDOT.

The Shelby County Delegation also represents this area in the Tennessee General Assembly.