Julie A. Oaks
TDOT, Public Information Officer
 Office: 615.741.2331
Mobile: 615.533.7105
Fax: 615.741.9093

Bredesen Announces Enhancement Grant for New Tazewell in Claiborne County

Nashville, Tenn. - Governor Phil Bredesen joined state and local leaders today to announce a transportation enhancement grant in the amount of $134,880 for the New Tazewell Sidewalk Improvement project in Claiborne County.

The grant funds will be used to construct a ten foot wide concrete sidewalk that will follow the east side of Davis Drive continuing to Straight Creek Road.  The sidewalk will also follow the north side of Textile Drive from Davis Drive. The sidewalk will provide a pedestrian and bicycle route that will serve the New Tazewell Primary School, the Claiborne County Health Department and Alpha pre-school.

“It is important to provide alternate forms of transportation when possible,” said Governor Bredesen. “This project will establish better connections within the community as well as a new recreational attraction for the town of New Tazewell. I’m pleased the state is able to support this important project.”

“This is an investment that will serve this city for years to come.  I’m pleased the state is assisting with these much needed improvements,” added Senator Mike Williams. ”

“This grant will be used for the construction of sidewalks which will provide pedestrian access to several locations, including the primary school, health department and the local utility office,” said Representative Dennis Roach. ”These new sidewalks will enhance the city’s growth and economic development.”
 
The grant is made possible through a federally funded program administered by the Tennessee Department of Transportation.

“TDOT has funded more than $189 million in transportation related projects through our Enhancement Grant Program,” said TDOT Commissioner Gerald Nicely.  “This program provides funds to cities, counties and state organizations to fund activities such as the restoration of historic facilities, bike and pedestrian trails, landscaping, streetscaping and other non-traditional transportation projects.” 

The federal grant program was established by Congress in the early 1990’s to fund activities designed to strengthen the cultural, aesthetic and environmental aspects of the nation’s transportation system.