August 20, 2008
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 Ridgely in Lake Co.
Nashville, Tenn. - Governor Phil Bredesen joined state and local leaders today to announce a transportation enhancement grant in the amount of $285,922 for the Ridgely Downtown Enhancement project.
The grant funds will be used for sidewalk, crosswalk and intersection improvements along Main Street between King Street and Lake Street, including the addition of ADA accessible ramps, pedestrian lighting, street trees and other landscaping.
“This project will enhance the charm of downtown Ridgely and will make the area more accessible to everyone,” said Governor Bredesen. “When completed, citizens and visitors will be able to enjoy a safer walking environment. I’m pleased the state is able to help with this effort.”
“This enhancement project will help create more activity in the downtown Ridgely area, while also restoring some of the beauty of this small town,” said Senator Roy Herron. “The project will also create a safer walking environment for citizens and visitors. I’m pleased that the Governor and TDOT are assisting with this project.”
“This grant will help make downtown Ridgely even better by improving safety and adding to the downtown’s historic charm. I know this project will have a positive effect on community pride and economic development,” added House Transportation Committee Chairman Phillip Pinion.
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 proposed Downtown Enhancement project will upgrade one block of Main Street from King Street to Lake Street. The project includes: replacement of existing curbing along Main Street; replacement of sidewalks along Main Street including ADA accessible ramps; installation of curbed bump outs at the intersections of King Street and Lake Street; installation of curb ramps with landscaping at the intersections of King Street and Lake Street; installation of brick crosswalks at the intersection of King Street to define pedestrian crossing; installation of street trees native to the area in cast iron gates along improved sidewalks and intersections to provide visual appeal; installation of additional pedestrian street lighting; new benches, trash receptacles and signs; and improvements to the existing drainage system.