KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Tennessee's Office of Outdoor Recreation announced over $21 million in grants from the Local Parks and Recreation Fund. This funding will go to 27 communities across the state, the office said.
"The LPRF program provides state funding to match local government investments for recreation projects and the purchase of land for parks, natural areas, greenways, and recreational facilities," the office said.
The office also said all grant projects must be on publically owned land. A few East Tennessee communities were set to receive thousands in funding for park improvements, out of the 27 communities across the state getting funding.
A list of the East Tennessee communities getting funding through the new grants is available below.
- Harriman ($300,000) - Improvements at the Community Center will include new flooring for the gymnasium, an HVAC system, and parking lot paving. Improvements at Riverfront Park will include the first phase of the installation of new trail lighting.
- Rocky Top ($566,000) - Upgrade of the existing restroom facility, replacement of bleacher structure, with a press box on top, and accessibility features at Community Center Park.
- Bean Station ($125,000) - Upgrades to the existing playground area, parking, and two ballfields at City Park.
- Dandridge ($500,000)- Playground, restroom building, access paths, a shade structure, accessible parking and pickleball courts at Field of Dreams Playground.
"The LPRF program is a critical resource that the Office of Outdoor Recreation manages to help expand access to recreational opportunities in our local communities,” said Brian Clifford, director of the Office of Outdoor Recreation. “These grants directly contribute to improving the quality of life, health, and economy in our cities and counties."