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

Governor Bredesen Announces Enhancement Grant for City of Brownsville

Nashville, Tenn. - Governor Phil Bredesen joined state and local leaders today to announce a transportation enhancement grant in the amount of $740,000 for the Central Business District Pedestrian Walkway project in Haywood County.

The grant funds will be used to a safer environment for pedestrians working and visiting the downtown area in Brownsville.

“Having pedestrian friendly downtown districts can help these local economies grow and thrive, and will improve the quality of life for residents and visitors alike,” said Governor Bredesen. “I’m pleased the state could assist with this important downtown improvement project.”

“When complete, this project will further Brownsville’s efforts to create a downtown that encourages visitors to park, walk, and shop,” said House Speaker Jimmy Naifeh. ”I thank Governor Bredesen and TDOT for providing these funds.”

Senator John Wilder added, “I’m glad to support projects that provide new opportunities for residents and visitors alike to take advantage of all that downtown Brownsville has to offer.”
 
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.

The Central Business District Pedestrian Walkway project includes improvements to several crosswalks, landscaping, and street lighting enhancements.