Gov. Robert Bentley has announced a $200,000 grant that will enhance recreation in the city of Moundville.
The Appalachian Regional Commission grant will be used to build a 1,500-foot concrete trail connecting downtown with Moundville State Archaeological Park. The walking and bicycle trail will be parallel to a proposed road that will run the identical route as the trail.
“This project will benefit residents, visitors and be an asset to an already wonderful historical park and community,” Bentley said. “I commend local leaders for their commitment to improve the community and boost Moundville’s economy.”
ARC funds will be used to build, landscape and light the trail. Local funds of $78,020 have been pledged for the project.
City officials believe the road and trail will draw more visitors to the downtown district because it will provide more direct access between the park and downtown. About 30,000 people annually visit the park, the site of a major prehistoric settlement along the Black Warrior River during the Mississippian or mound-building era. Native Americans who were part of the culture that developed during this era established permanent villages and turned to agriculture as a major means of obtaining food.
Bentley notified Mayor Tony Lester that the grant has been approved.
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs administers the ARC program in Alabama.
Congress established the ARC in 1965 as a supplemental grant program to raise the standard of living, improve the quality of life and promote economic development in portions of the 13 Appalachian mountain states. Thirty-seven Alabama counties, including Hale County, are part of the ARC area.
ADECA manages a range of programs that support law enforcement, economic development, recreation, energy conservation and water resource management.
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Contact Jim Plott or Larry Childers