Governor Bill Haslam and Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation Commissioner Bob Martineau announced Monday a series of grants totaling more than $17 million to help fund parks and recreation projects in Tennessee communities.
“These grants are very competitive so I applaud our local officials for their hard work on behalf of their communities,” Gov. Haslam said. “Our goal at the state level is to make Tennessee the very best place to live, work and raise a family, and I want to thank local officials for their partnership in making these grants happen and achieving that goal.”
TDEC will award $15.8 million in Local Park and Recreation grants to 55 different communities, as well as $1.9 million in Recreational Trails Program grants for a total of 12 parks and communities across Tennessee.
“Local parks and recreation areas provide opportunities to gather, experience nature, and enjoy outdoor activities,” Comm. Martineau said. “We’re grateful to be able to help fund these projects, which will pay dividends for our communities now and in the future.”
Local Parks and Recreation Fund Grants in the area include:
Bradley County, City of Cleveland, $500,000 for Tinsley Park tennis court renovation;
Grundy County, Town of Gruetli Laager, $92,000 for improvements to tennis/basketball courts and baseball field at Volunteer Park;
Grundy County, Town of Palmer, $18,000 to replace outdated playground equipment at Palmer Community Park;
Grundy County, Town of Tracy City, $121,000 for improvements to the Old Tracy School Gym now owned by the City of Tracey City; and
Sequatchie County, City of Dunlap, $500,000 for Forest Street Park restroom/concession facility, irrigation, expansion of road, and walking trail.