Governor Bredesen Announces Enhancement Grant for Winchester

Enhancement Grant for Winchester Downtown Revitalization Project:
 left to right, City Mayor Terry Herrell, TDOT Commissioner Gerald F. Nicely, Bryan Bean,
 Margret Lynch, City Administrator Beth Rhoton, Rep. George Fraley, Gov. Phil Bredesen, Kathyrne Santisteban.

Nashville, Tenn. – Governor Phil Bredesen announced today that the state will provide the city of Winchester in Franklin County with an enhancement grant in the amount of $388,265 to assist with the Winchester Downtown Revitalization Project.

“This project is one part of a long term plan that will change the face of downtown Winchester,” said Governor Bredesen. “I’m proud the State of Tennessee can make investments like this one that will enhance the City of Winchester for the benefit of citizens and visitors alike for generations to come.”

According to the grant application, the project will include landscaping, new signage, crosswalks, and sidewalk reconstruction.

“The existing sidewalks in the downtown district were constructed more than 30 years ago,” said Representative George Fraley. “The new sidewalks will provide a safer, more enjoyable experience for everyone who visits our downtown.”

“A downtown that is more accessible to motorists and pedestrians will improve the quality of life for residents and visitors,” added Senator Jerry Cooper.

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.”

U.S. Highway 41A, State Route 130, U.S. Highway 64, and State Route 50 all merge in Winchester’s downtown district.