Haslam Announces Transportation Grant for Kingsport

Grant to fund Greenbelt Pedestrian Bridge project

NASHVILLE – Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam joined state and local leaders today to announce a $652,577 transportation enhancement grant to Kingsport for a pedestrian bridge project.

The Greenbelt Pedestrian Bridge project in Kingsport includes the construction of a 620-linear foot bridge across the Holston River, as well as a retaining wall, pedestrian amenities and landscaping.

The bridge is part of a multi-phased riverfront bicycle and pedestrian facility that began nearly two decades ago. The bridge will extend the existing greenway from its current terminus at the eastern bank of the South Fork of the Holston River across the North Fork of the Holston River. 

“Through these grants, a great network of greenways has been created in Sullivan County that promotes a healthy lifestyle and a new way to explore the area,” Haslam said. “This new project will link the greenways to neighboring residential areas, commercial districts and to Tennessee’s State Bike Route.”

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

“Through Transportation Enhancement grants, TDOT has funded more than $259 million in non-traditional transportation projects,” said TDOT Commissioner John Schroer.  “Established by Congress in the early 1990’s, the program supports activities designed to strengthen the cultural, aesthetic and environmental aspects of the nation’s transportation system.”

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.

Tennessee Lt. Gov. Ron Ramsey (R-Blountville) and state Reps. Scotty Campbell (R-Mountain City), Jon Lundberg (R-Bristol) and Tony Shipley (R-Kingsport) represent Sullivan County in the Tennessee General Assembly.