Haslam Announces Transportation Grant for Ashland City

$398,000 grant funds connect three parks along Marks Creek

ASHLAND CITY – Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and Department of Transportation Commissioner John Schroer announced today the award of a $398,447 transportation alternative grant that will connect three parks along Marks Creek in Ashland City.

The Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail Project is located along the bank of Marks Creek near three city parks and SR 49. The project will provide trail connections to all three parks, which are currently only accessible by automobile. It includes more than 2,000 linear feet of 10-foot wide asphalt trail, a bridge, boardwalk, retaining walls, fencing, and a trailhead with amenities. New signs, benches, and landscaping will also enhance the scenic character of the town’s greenway system.

“This project brings the greenway system into Ashland City’s vibrant riverfront, and these connections will make these parks not only more accessible to residents and visitors but also safer,” Haslam said. “Projects such as this help strengthen the livability of our communities and the quality of life for residents and visitors.”

The transportation alternative grant is made possible through a federally funded program formerly known as “transportation enhancement” and is administered by the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT).

“Through these grants, TDOT has funded more than $306 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.”

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. Jim Summerville (R-Dickson) and Rep. Mary Littleton (R-Dickson) represent Cheatham County in the Tennessee General Assembly.