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

Bredesen Announces Enhancement Grant for Maynardville in Union County

Nashville, Tenn. - Governor Phil Bredesen joined state and local leaders today to announce a transportation enhancement grant in the amount of $181,988 for Phase III of the Maynardville Downtown Connector Project in Union County.

The grant funds will be used to construct a new 2,800 feet trail as part of the Union County Phase III Downtown Connector.  The trail will involve the replacement of sidewalk that has become greatly deteriorate due to age.  The proposed trail will allow the residents, business owners and the general traveling public the ability to access the downtown area with a safe alternative mode of transportation.  Local residents and professionals that have businesses that are associated with Courthouse activities currently must walk in the road or on deteriorated sidewalks.  The project as proposed would link several significant locations together.

“This project will improve access to important locations in downtown Maynardville,” said Governor Bredesen. “Today, residents must resort to walking in the street at times to reach the Union County Courthouse and businesses. I’m proud the State of Tennessee can make investments like this that will enhance the community for the benefit of both citizens and visitors.”

“I’m happy I was able to help bring this grant to Union County,” said Senator Mike Williams. “Something as simple as a sidewalk can make a big difference in the safety of our citizens.”

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 project includes 12 new ramps, and the proposed trail connector will allow handicapped participants to access different venues by way of an accessible trail connector.