By Shannon McFarlin WENK/WTPR News Director
Paris, Tenn.—The city of Paris got a double dose of very good news at dual press conferences Tuesday afternoon: the award of an $832,960 Transportation Alternative Grant for the Wilson Street pedestrian sidewalk project and a grant of $500,000 from the state for construction of a splash pad, pavilions and family area at the Eiffel Tower Park.
The Eiffel Tower Park project will cost a total $1M, with a $500,000 match from the city with state funds coming from the TDEC Local Parks and Recreation Fund. Under the plan—which has been presented at several public meetings in Paris—the city will expand the park’s parking area by 40 spaces, including three handicapped spots and an ADA restroom facility. They will create a youth spray zone, two pavilions and an interactive ground spray feature. The pavilions will be ADA accessible from sidewalk connections.
Once completed, the water feature will be one of the biggest in the state of Tennessee.
State officials, headed by Deputy Governor Jim Henry, were on hand at Paris City Hall for the announcements.
The Wilson Street project will include construction of sidewalks along Wilson from Patriot Avenue to Lone Oak Road and from S. Wilson to Lankford Rd. and along Lankford. The project also includes curb and gutter, signage, pavement markings and ADA upgrades.
Henry thanked the city leaders in Paris and the “great partnership” of State Rep. Tim WIrgau, R-Paris; and State Sen. John Stevens, R-Huntingdon, for their leadership in achieving the projects. Both Wirgau and Stevens represent Henry Co. in the General Assembly.
Stevens noted that the recent addition of a splash pad in downtown McKenzie has enhanced their community by “bringing more people” and that will happen with this project, as well.
Wirgau said applauded the partnership with Stevens that has allowed them to work together for the local communities “and do it in a manner that makes common sense… We need to put politics aside and work together to make things happen. I take great pride in District 75” and its citizens, he said.
Deputy Governor Henry said, “People don’t realize, but this is the real Tennessee,” noting that the local area “is a pretty special place”.
Paris Mayor Carlton Gerrell said, “We’re really excited. This is a great day” and City Manager Kim Foster said, “There’s a lot more accomplished when we work together”. She noted that a splash pad has been on the city’s wish list for some time and told state officials, “Thank you so much. We’re so thrilled.” She also thanked TDOT officials for their help in putting the Wilson Street project together. “It’s been a real team effort.”
Foster thanked city employees, notably Parks Director Tony Lawrence and Gary Paschall for their help in formulating the plan for the splash pad area.
“I can’t wait to get started,” Foster said.
Photos: Check presentations for the Wilson Street project; Eiffel Tower water recreational project; and Deputy Governor Jim Henry sits with State Sen. John Stevens, State Rep. Tim Wirgau and local officials. (Shannon McFarlin photos).
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