Governor Awards National Scenic Byway Grant to Fund Project In Seven East Tennessee Counties

Grant To Fund Project In Seven East Tennessee Counties
Nashville, Tenn. – Governor Phil Bredesen today announced a $100,000 National Scenic Byway Program grant to the Knoxville Regional Transportation Planning Organization to fund the “Scenic and Cultural Corridor – US Highway 321” project in Loudon, Blount, Sevier, Cocke, Greene, Washington and Carter counties.

“Tennessee’s Scenic Byways Program is an important resource in highlighting the beautiful and historical features of our state,” said Governor Phil Bredesen. “The Scenic Byway designation draws attention to these roadways, giving drivers an opportunity to explore a little more of Tennessee’s natural beauty.”

The grant provided for the “Scenic and Cultural Corridor – US Highway 321” will provide funding for the development of a Corridor Management Plan.

“The goal of this program is to create a distinctive collection of American roads, their stories and treasured places,” said TDOT Commissioner Gerald Nicely. “The national byways distinction along these roadways will help tell Tennessee’s story to those traveling our state.”

The Tennessee State Scenic Byways Program is designed to recognize and showcase outstanding cultural, historical, archeological, recreational, natural and scenic resources along Tennessee’s public highways. The program supports organizations in their quest for National Scenic Byway funding and recognition.

“Highway 321 provides some of the most spectacular views of the great Smoky Mountains,” said Representative Eddie Yokley who represents Greene and Cocke Counties in the Tennessee General Assembly. “The development of this Corridor Management Plan will help bring attention to this area and all of its natural beauty.”

The six grants awarded today total $436,639 and encompass projects affecting 16 counties in Tennessee. The grants are made possible through a federally funded program administered by TDOT.