MONTGOMERY— Gov. Robert Bentley has awarded grants totaling $300,000 to build two pedestrian bridges and extend trails around Duck River Reservoir, now under construction.
A $100,000 grant awarded to the Cullman County Commission will help construct an 85-foot bridge south of the reservoir’s proposed dam, while an additional $100,000 grant to the city of Cullman utilities board will fund a 100-foot bridge at the north end of the reservoir. A third $100,000 grant will enable the city of Cullman to complete 8.5 miles of natural-surface trails for walking and biking.
Part of the planned 21-mile Duck River Multi-Purpose Recreation Trail, the new bridges and trail will surround a $100-million reservoir being built to provide more water for the rapidly growing region. The first phase of the trail system was recently completed and 3.5 miles are now open to the public.
“Providing easier access to outdoor recreation areas should encourage more Alabamians to take advantage of these resources,” Bentley said. “The bridges and trails around Duck River Reservoir will open up new recreation opportunities for residents and attract additional visitors to the region.”
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grant from funds made available by the Federal Highway Administration’s Recreational Trails Program. ADECA manages an array of programs supporting law enforcement and traffic safety, economic development, energy conservation, workforce development, water resource management and recreation development.
Bentley notified Cullman Mayor Max Townson, Utilities Board Chairman Wayne Fuller and County Commission Chairman Kenneth Walker that the grants had been approved. The city of Cullman is contributing $123,000 to the project, Cullman County is contributing $41,482 and the Utilities Board is providing $85,000.
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Contact: Russell Sellers, Mike Presley