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

Bredesen Announces Enhancement Grant for City of Parsons in Decatur Co.

Nashville, Tenn. - Governor Phil Bredesen joined state and local leaders today to announce a transportation enhancement grant in the amount of $747,874 for phase II of the Parsons Downtown Improvements Project in Decatur County.

The grant funds will be used to make several improvements along Tennessee Avenue between 4th and 9th Streets.  Existing sidewalks will be improved and sidewalks will be added to areas where there are currently none available and handicap-accessible ramps will be added to the improved and new sidewalks.  New decorative street lighting will be provided throughout the project area to improve safety and create an aesthetically pleasing environment.  Trees will also be planted along the downtown streets to separate pedestrian and vehicular traffic which will improve safety in the area.

“Many people in the city of Parsons use Tennessee Avenue to visit the doctor, have lunch with friends or to shop at one of the many businesses in the area,” said Governor Bredesen. “It’s important to ensure that visitors and residents have safe, accessible sidewalks.  I’m pleased the state is able to help improve safety along this main thoroughfare in downtown Parsons.”

“Phase two of the Parsons Downtown Improvement Project will continue to improve the downtown core of Parsons,” said Senator Roy Herron. ”The new and improved sidewalks will provide access to vital downtown areas including the new Parsons Municipal Center.”

Representative Randy Rinks added, “With more than thirty businesses and the new Parsons Municipal Center, downtown Parsons already has a lot to offer residents and visitors. The addition of new sidewalks, trees and lighting will make the downtown area safer and more inviting for residents and visitors.”

“I’m pleased to see the state providing these funds to assist in the city of Parsons Downtown Improvement Project. These funds will help us showcase our downtown area and draw more visitors and hopefully businesses to the city,” said Representative Steve McDaniel.

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.”