Grant to Fund Restoration of Historic R.J. Corman Bridge
Nashville, TN – Governor Phil Bredesen joined TDOT Commissioner Gerald Nicely and state and local leaders Tuesday to announce the award of a $1,391,715 transportation enhancement grant to Montgomery County for Phase II of the R.J. Corman Bridge Rehabilitation Project.
The bridge is located on Riverside Drive in downtown Clarksville, near the historic Clarksville Welcome sign. The rehabilitation project will enhance the aesthetic visual quality of the Clarksville River District, improve the bridge’s structural integrity and safety, and will further economic development and urban renewal efforts.
“This bridge is an important piece of Clarksville’s past and its future,” said Bredesen. “I’m pleased we could provide the funds necessary to rehabilitate the bridge and transform it into a beautiful gateway into the city’s historic river district.”
“Clarksville is home to many historic sites that draw thousands of visitors to the area each year,” said Representative Joe Pitts. “I’m pleased the state can provide funds to support the continued improvement of Montgomery County.”
“At 150 years old, this bridge is rich with history and iconic to Clarksville’s downtown area,” added Representative Phillip Johnson. “A project to preserve this structure for Montgomery County has my full support.”
Representative Curtis Johnson also supported the project.
The grant is made possible through a federally funded program administered by the Tennessee Department of Transportation.
“Through Transportation Enhancement grants, TDOT has funded approximately $223 million in non-traditional transportation projects,” said Nicely. “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.
