CROSSVILLE AND CUMBERLAND MOUNTAIN STATE PARK SCORE PORTION OF $22M GRANT
The Crossville Chronicle reports that The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation’s Office of Outdoor Recreation has awarded $22 million in grants through the Local Parks and Recreation Fund (LPRF) and Recreational Trails Program (RTP) to 31 communities across the state, with Crossville and Cumberland Mountain State Park among the recipients.
On November 6, ceremonial checks were presented, including a $359,000 LPRF grant to the city of Crossville for an inclusive playground designed for children of all abilities, bolstered by a private donation from Ann and Pepe Perron and slated for completion in 2027. City Manager Valerie Hale emphasized the community-driven design that promotes accessibility and shared play.
Meanwhile, Cumberland Mountain State Park received a $106,000 RTP grant to rehabilitate a historic three-mile loop hiking trail toward Lake Tansi, complete with new signage, a trailhead, and creek crossings—an area originally developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps but abandoned in 1975 due to misuse.
Park manager Mark Houston noted the trail’s revival will enhance visitor experiences, with construction expected to begin in January following bidding.
Deputy Commissioner Greer Tidwell highlighted the grants’ role in making quality outdoor recreation more affordable for local governments, supporting everything from playgrounds and greenways to trail restoration on public lands.
