KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Eight communities across Tennessee will get grants from the state to help build and maintain trails, as part of a program meant to add ways people can enjoy the outdoors and improve communities' health and economies.
In a release sent Monday, the state said its Office of Outdoor Recreation would give out a total of $2.6 million from its Recreational Trails Program. The program gives out federal funding to match payments by local governments — helping pay to acquire trails, maintain trails, build new ones and support facilities along them.
A list of the eight communities receiving money, as well as the amount they will receive and the project it will go towards, is available below.
- Access Fund in Marion County - $196,975, Foster Falls Stewardship Initiative
- City of Crossville in Cumberland County - $392,00, Meadow Park Trailhead Facility
- Doe Mountain Recreation Authority in Johnson County - $392,000, Trail Development
- Grainger County - $392,000, County Park ADA Compliant Trail
- City of Hendersonville in Sumner County - $392,000, Veterans Park Pump Track
- City of Jackson in Madison County - $392,000, Cypress Grove Boardwalk Replacement
- Town of Jonesborough in Washington County - $392,000, Lost State Scenic Walkway Expansion
- Town of Oliver Springs in Roane County - $60,400, Arrowhead Park Improvements
The Crossville project would result in improvements to Meadow Park Lake, Soldier's Beach Trail, the North Trail and the development of a new trail. The release also said the city would build a trailhead facility near the start of Soldier's Trail and the North Trail, with accessible restrooms, an informational kiosk and accessories like a bike rack, a dog watering station and a drinking fountain.
The city also plans to use the money to build accessible parking and a crosswalk at the main park entrance.
In Johnson County, the money will be used to build off-highway vehicle tails and a trail for hiking, biking and motorbiking. It would also help build signs for the park's adventure center, and additional signs for three trailheads. A map of the area will also be updated to include new trails.
In Grainger County Park, leaders plan to build an accessible asphalt trail through a wooded area along a lake. There will also be accessible parking, as well a new signs.
Oliver Springs plans to use the money to lay asphalt over its walking trail and upgrade its drainage, helping keep it safe.
