Press release from the Office of Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam; August 11, 2014:
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and Tennessee Department of Transportation Commissioner John Schroer announced today the award of a $361,440 transportation alternative grant to the city of Shelbyville for the North Square Sidewalk Improvement Project.
The project includes replacement of nearly 2,000 feet of existing sidewalks, and improvements to four intersections north of the City Public Square. This project continues the city’s efforts to provide pedestrian facilities to its downtown, and will build on previous improvements along the corridor. The project will also improve the aesthetics of the area, and encourage development in the downtown district.
“This project will support Shelbyville’s efforts to give its downtown a more vibrant, inviting appearance,” Haslam said. “We want to continue to make our state an even better place to live, work and raise a family, and projects like these are key to making that a reality.”
The transportation alternative grant is made possible through a federally funded program formerly known as transportation enhancement, and is administered by the Tennessee Department of Transportation.
“Through these grants, TDOT has funded more than $306 million in non-traditional transportation projects,” said TDOT Commissioner John Schroer. “This program has assisted communities all over the state in their efforts to revitalize downtowns, highlight historic areas, provide alternative means of transportation, and increase opportunities for economic development.”
A variety of activities such as the restoration of historic facilities, bike and pedestrian trails, landscaping and other non-traditional transportation projects are eligible for grant funds under the federal program.
Sen. Jim Tracy (R-Shelbyville) and Rep. Pat Marsh (R-Shelbyville) represent Bedford County in the Tennessee General Assembly.
