Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and Tennessee Department of Transportation Commissioner John Schroer this week announced the award of a $159,300 transportation alternative grant to the Town of Lookout Mountain for the Incline Railway Rehabilitation Project.
The Incline Railway has a history in providing transportation from the base of Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga directly to the top. In operation since 1895, the Incline Railway is a National Historic Site and provides transportation to more than 380,000 travelers each year. The Incline Railway Rehabilitation Project will make much needed repairs to the upper station, including repairs to the top and lower platforms, roof replacement, and repair of drywall damaged by leaks.
“The Lookout Mountain Incline is not only historically significant, it serves the transportation needs of thousands of people each year,” Haslam said. “These improvements will ensure it remains a transportation resource for residents and visitors for years to come.”
The transportation alternative grant is made possible through a federally funded program formerly known as transportation enhancement, and is administered by the Tennessee Department of Transportation.
“Through these grants, TDOT has funded more than $306 million in non-traditional transportation projects,” said TDOT Commissioner John Schroer. “This program has assisted communities all over the state in their efforts to revitalize downtowns, highlight historic areas, provide alternative means of transportation, and increase opportunities for economic development.”
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.
Source: Tennessee Department of Transportation