Haslam Announces Transportation Grant for Atoka

Grant funds new pedestrian and bike connection for the Tipton County town
 
ATOKA – Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) Commissioner John Schroer announced today a $399,619 grant to the town of Atoka for a new pedestrian and bicycle connection to recreational facilities.
 
Phase I of the Atoka Greenway-Pedestrian Neighborhood Connector Project will provide access to numerous recreation facilities and serve as a focal point for the community. The project is being developed in conjunction with several other park and trail projects that will ultimately connect at several locations.
 
The project includes a 10-foot wide path, native trees and shrubs, wayfinding signs and drainage improvements. New ADA compliant crosswalks will also be installed, along with pedestrian bridge crossings.  
 
“This project is part of a proactive initiative by Atoka to create a healthier, safer, more active, and more connected community,” Haslam said. “It is wonderful to see communities across the state creating a network of greenways, trails and walkways allowing residents and visitors to experience our cities and towns in new and different ways.”
 
“Through these grants, TDOT has funded more than $294 million in non-traditional transportation projects,” said TDOT Commissioner John Schroer.  “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 transportation alternative grant is made possible through a federally-funded program formerly known as “transportation enhancement” and is 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. Mark Norris (R-Collierville) and state Rep. Debra Moody (R-Covington) represent Tipton County in the Tennessee General Assembly.