By Shannon McFarlin News Director
Paris, Tenn.–The Henry County Commission Monday evening pledged to pay matching funds if the county receives a RAISE grant intended for construction of the Hwy. 641N highway. RAISE is an acronym for the federal Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity grant program.
County Mayor John Penn Ridgeway said, “These funds would help make 641 go to a full five-lane highway. I feel good about our grant opportunities.”
In a resolution of support, the commission unanimously authorized payment of the matching funds if the grant is approved. Ridgeway said if the grant is declined, the county would re-apply in the next round of funding.
Matching funds of $500,000 would be required from Henry County and the city of Paris, for a total $1 million. Ridgeway said it is hoped that it would help finance a five-lane or at least four-lane highway.
Commissioner Dell Carter recounted all the twists and turns that have been undergone in the 641 widening project, recalling that the plan initially was for a five-lane, then was cut down, after which commissioners traveled to Nashville to speak to legislators “and now we’re talking about four-lane again”.
Ridgeway said state officials have been saying that traffic on Hwy. 641 has lessened.
Carter said, “They must not be driving on there when I am. If there’s anything that needs widening, it’s that road.”
Ridgeway said the situation continues to be “very fluid” and that the county should know by the fall whether it has received the RAISE grant.
In other business:
Sarah Cate Orr, organizer of the No Limits Livestock Show, passed out personal invitations to commissioners and audience members, inviting everyone to the show which is set for Saturday, July 24 at the Henry County Fairgrounds.
The No Limits Livestock show is a show specifically for the Special Education students in Paris and Henry County. “We have worked hard over the past year and a half, giving these students the opportunity to learn more about livestock,” she said.
“After two years, we’re finally able to put on the show and it’s really exciting,” she said. There are 12 students who have signed up to participate “and they’ll be learning what goes into a livestock program. It’s exciting for them to have this opportunity.”
The show is set from 10:45 a.m. to noon.
Earlier this year, Orr was awarded the county’s Loyal Patriot Award for her work with the No Limits program.
–Commissioners approved a resolution updating Occupational Safety and Health Program plans of operations for employees.
–Upon recommendation of the delinquent tax committee, commissioners approved sale of two properties at reduce prices: One property on Hardy Street for $2,468 (plus closing costs) and another on Williams Street for $500 (plus closing costs).
–Commissioners approved bonds for county officials.
Photo: Sarah Cate Orr appeared at meeting to invite everyone to this weekend’s No Limits Livestock Show. (Shannon McFarlin photo).