Rep. Paul Sherrell announces $100K grant for Bigbee River Trail

NASHVILLE – State Rep. Paul Sherrell, R-Sparta, today announced that $100,000 in funding has been awarded to the City of McMinnville for the Bigbee River Trail and Linear Parks Connectivity project.

The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) will administer the grant through the Recreational Trails Program (RTP), which provides funds for trail land acquisition, non-routine trail maintenance, trail rehabilitation and trailhead support facilities.

"Our community is truly blessed with some of Tennessee's most beautiful natural areas for residents and visitors to enjoy," said Sherrell. "The Bigbee River Trail was created by passionate local volunteers who care about Warren County's future. This significant funding will help McMinnville expand and upgrade the current path, allowing more families to experience all that the Barren Fork River has to offer."

The Bigbee River Trail runs along the Barren Fork River and connects Rocket Park, Salley's Alley and Hobbs Park.

Funding will support the rehabilitation and remediation of the existing 1.07-mile shared-use trail as well as the construction of a 90-foot sustainable elevated boardwalk, a youth mountain bike skills area at Hobbs Park and designated parking areas at each park. It will also be used to add clear wayfinding and safety signage, including three trailhead kiosk pads.

This year, TDEC administered more than $20 million to 19 communities across Tennessee through RTP and the Local Parks and Recreation Fund to help enhance parks, natural areas and trails.

State Rep. Paul Sherrell represents District 43 in the Tennessee House of Representatives, which includes Warren and White counties.