TDEC awards $784K for local trail development, expansion

WASHINGTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL) — Tennessee’s Office of Outdoor Recreation within the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) has awarded Johnson and Washington counties grants to improve trails.

Out of the $2.6 million worth of grants, Johnson and Washington Counties will receive $784,000 for trail development and expansion.

Below are the details for each awarded grant, as described by TDEC:

• Town of Jonesborough – Lost State Scenic Walkway Expansion – $392,000
  • Development of a paved walkway system with two pedestrian bridges to connect parks and residential areas. The trail will run from Mill Spring Park to Stage Road Park. The bridges will provide access over Little Limestone Creek.
• Johnson County – Doe Mountain Recreation Authority – $392,000
  • The grant will be used for the construction of off-highway vehicle trails and a hiking/biking/moto trail. The project includes the construction of primary signage for the Adventure Center and secondary signage for three trailheads.

“Trails are a fun way cities and counties help improve their quality of life, health, and economy,” said Greer Tidwell, deputy commissioner for the Bureau of Conservation at TDEC.  “These funds will help our local communities do more with their outdoor spaces.”

State senator Rusty Crowe (R-Johnson City) and state representative Rebecca Alexander (R-Jonesborough) issued statements on the Lost State Scenic Walkway Expansion. The lawmakers said the funds awarded will be used to pave 3,000 feet of walking trail.

“I am thrilled to announce that TDEC is providing state funds to expand Lost State Scenic Walkway,” said Crowe. “Lost State Scenic Walkway is vital to our region by connecting communities together. This walking trail will connect many residential areas to downtown and parks as well as improve the healthiness of Jonesborough, Washington County, and beyond.”

“Downtown Jonesborough is a special place for the community to spend time with family and friends,” Rep. Alexander said. “This walking trail will provide easier access to downtown while also giving citizens a place to be active and enjoy the outdoors. I’m thrilled for our town, and I can’t wait to see the positive impact this will have in the future.”

For a complete list of awarded grants, click here .

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