Pictured from left to right are Ducktown Mayor Doug Collins, District 22 State Representative Dan Howell and Ducktown City Manager, James Talley.
Tennessee State Representative Dan Howell announced that the city of Ducktown has been awarded a Pedestrian Enhancement Grant in the amount of $300,000. The grant, which is made possible through a federally funded program administered by the Tennessee Department of Transporation, will fund a project to improve pedestrian safety as well as beautify and revitalize the downtown area.
“These types of projects strengthen our communities,” Rep. Howell said, "and I am pleased to see this investment being made in Historic downtown Ducktown."
Ducktown Mayor Doug Collins said " I'm please that our grant application has been approved and I think this will give our downtown area a much needed boost." Mayor Collins also expressed hope the revitalization will give added emphasis to Ducktown's rich mining history and attract tourists to the area.
Since being established by Congress in the 1990s, the enhancement grant 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.
"I haven't seen the final design' Rep.
Howell said, "but I'm confident Ducktown residents will be pleased with the results. Projects of this type usually incorporate new pedestrian sidewalks with brick pavers, crosswalks, ornamental street lighting, and other pedestrian amenities as well as new landscaping. But the biggest benefit I believe will be the revitalization of downtown Ducktown and stimulation of the economy."