Governor Haslam Announces Transportation Grant for Town of Collierville

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) Commissioner John Schroer announced today the award of a $756,846 transportation enhancement grant to the town of Collierville for Phase I of the Center Connect Project.

 

Phase I of the Center Connect Project includes the creation of a gateway entrance corridor from US 72/SR 86 to Collierville’s historic downtown area and connects several existing greenways. Phase I covers the intersection of Center Street and South Rowlett to the intersection of South Street. The project features shared lanes for bicyclists, new crosswalks, landscaping, and sidewalks. Flowering trees and shrubs will also be planted in the area, and new park benches and bicycle racks will be installed.

“This project will enhance the character of Collierville’s downtown district, while also making some needed improvements,” Haslam said. “When complete, this project will provide safer transportation alternatives that will increase the sense of community and draw new visitors to the area each year. We are proud to support these important improvements.”

 

The grant is made possible through a federally funded program administered by the Tennessee Department of Transportation.

 

“Through Transportation Enhancement grants, TDOT has funded more than $270 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.

 

State Senator Mark Norris (R-Collierville) and State Representative Curry Todd (R-Collierville) represent Shelby County in the Tennessee General Assembly.