Governor Bredesen Announces Enhancement Grant for New Tazewell

Enhancement Grant for New Tazwell Sidewalk Improvements:
 Left to right, Rep. Dennis Roach, TDOT Commissioner Gerald F. Nicely, City Recorder Hershel Beeler,
 Gov. Phil Bredesen, and Sen. Micheal Williams.

Nashville, Tenn. -- Governor Phil Bredesen announced today that the state will provide the city of New Tazewell in Claiborne County with an enhancement grant in the amount of $179,590 to assist with the New Tazewell Sidewalk Improvements Project.

The city of New Tazewell requested the Enhancement Grant in order to establish a more functional sidewalk system. Once complete, the project will enhance access to the New Tazewell commercial district from nearby neighborhoods.

“Cities in Claiborne County rely on grants like this for improvements that otherwise may not be funded,” said Governor Bredesen. “This project will improve the quality of life of residents who live near the downtown area, and I’m proud the State of Tennessee can make investments like this one that enhance local communities for the benefit of our citizens and visitors alike.”

“It’s exciting to be a part of this improvement effort, “said Senator Micheal Williams. “It’s an investment in the community, and an important step in ensuring that New Tazewell residents can be even more proud of their town.”

The project will include the construction of more than 2,000 feet of sidewalk, and repairs to more than 4,000 feet of existing sidewalks.

“This is a much needed improvement for the residents of New Tazewell,” said Representative Dennis Roach. “I’m thankful I could assist in bringing this grant to Claiborne County.”

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

“Including this year’s enhancement grants, TDOT has helped fund approximately $189 million worth of transportation related projects such as the restoration of historic facilities, bike and pedestrian trails, landscaping and other non-traditional transportation projects,” said TDOT Commissioner Gerald Nicely. “These grants were made possible in the 1990s when Congress established a grant system funding activities designed to strengthen the cultural, aesthetic and environmental aspects of the nation’s transportation system.”

It’s estimated that more than 40,000 people would use the sidewalk system every year.