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 Paris in Henry County

Nashville, Tenn. - Governor Phil Bredesen joined state and local leaders today to announce a transportation enhancement grant in the amount of $389,629 for the Downtown Pedestrian Plaza project in Henry County.

The grant funds will be used to transform a vacant lot at the main entrance to downtown Paris into a feature that will complement the city’s historic downtown courthouse and surrounding buildings.

“This enhancement project will not only improve the aesthetics of downtown Paris, it will also engage residents and visitors by providing a venue for the expansion of local festivals and street fairs,” said Governor Bredesen. “I’m pleased the state could support efforts to improve this area.”

“This project is located in a highly visible intersection and will help in efforts to provide a convenient, cultural and historical experience for our citizens and tourists,” said Senator Roy Herron. ”I thank Governor Bredesen and TDOT for making these funds available.”

Representative Willie Borchert added, “I give my full support to this project, which is an example of the dedication of local government leaders to the economic development of both large and small communities."

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.