Local Tennessee communities to receive parks and recreation funding

From the Chattanoogan: Communities across Tennessee will be receiving grants soon for local park and recreation projects. Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation announced the awardees of more than $26.5 million.

Local areas receiving that funding include East Ridge, Grundy County, McMinn County, Rhea County, South Pittsburg and Sweetwater.

The grants come from Local Parks and Recreation Fund (LPRF).

East Ridge is receiving $400,000 for the two new youth courts and a full-size recreation court at the East Ridge Community Center.

Grundy County is receiving $1,945,000 for a new park, called the Miracle on the Mountain Play Outside Park.

McMinn County is receiving $630,000 for turf, underground drainage and netting for the McMinn County Bicentennial Park.

Rhea County is receiving $1,568,399 for a new recreation area, called the Abel Sports Complex. It will include five soccer fields and a non-motorized track.

South Pittsburg is receiving $1,571,556 for a new park, called River Park. It will include a kayak launch, a dog park, sports fields and more.

Sweetwater is receiving $554,500 for improvements to the Sweetwater Recreation Complex, including a replastering of the swimming pool, a new concession stand, two pickleball courts and more.

The governor announced this funding as he finished his Conservation Tour. Governor Lee recently made stops at Booker T. Washington State Park and the North Chickamauga Creek Gorge State Park.

“I am glad these funds are available to help encourage physical activity and bring the community together,” said State Senator Todd Gardenhire. “Sports and other physical activities promote a healthier lifestyle by fighting childhood obesity, improving immune function, and resulting in better overall mental and physical health. I appreciate the local officials who worked to secure these funds for our community.”