Haslam Announces Transportation Grant for Bolivar

New lighting and sidewalks to come to portions of Courthouse Square

BOLIVAR – Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) Commissioner John Schroer today announced a $305,120 transportation enhancement grant to Bolivar to fund new lighting and sidewalks around Courthouse Square.

The project is Phase III of the Pedestrian Walkway Project and is located on the perimeter of the Courthouse Square in Bolivar. It will complement the previous projects by adding decorative pedestrian lighting along the sidewalks on North Main Street (SR 18).

The project will also replace a small section of sidewalk along West Market Street (SR 15). All three project phases are designed to connect to the City of Bolivar’s Court Square Revitalization Pilot Program.

“Downtown is the heart of any community, and this project will greatly improve the walkability around Bolivar’s Court Square,” Haslam said. “It is also a major step in the city’s efforts to revitalize its downtown and create a welcoming environment for residents, visitors and potential businesses.”

“Through transportation enhancement grants, TDOT has funded more than $270 million in non-traditional transportation projects,” Schroer said. “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.”

The grant is made possible through a federally funded program administered by TDOT.

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.

State Sen. Dolores Gresham (R-Somerville) and state Reps. Barrett Rich (R-Somerville) and Johnny Shaw (D-Bolivar) represent Hardeman County in the Tennessee General Assembly.