Haslam Announces Transportation Grant for Chapel Hill

CHAPEL HILL – Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and Tennessee Department of Transportation Commissioner John Schroer announced today the award of a $1,784,102 Transportation Alternative Grant to the city of Chapel Hill for downtown bicycle and pedestrian improvements (Phase I).

This project includes construction of a multi-use path along both sides of SR-11/US-31A from City Hall to West Depot Street (Phase 1). The project also includes ADA upgrades, pedestrian signals, landscaping, pedestrian lighting, pedestrian amenities, signage and pavement markings.

“The town of Chapel Hill is committed to providing safe pedestrian and bicyclist facilities for its residents and linking critical economic, residential, and recreational areas,” Haslam said. “Projects like this enhance the lives of Tennesseans and make our communities more livable. I’m pleased the state can assist.”

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.

“Through these grants, TDOT has funded more than $372 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.”

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.

Sen. Shane Reeves (R-Murfreesboro) and Rep. Rick Tillis (R-Lewisburg), represent Marshall County in the Tennessee General Assembly.