MGTA Gets $450K Health Grant
The Mountain Goat Trail Alliance has received a three-year, $450,000 grant from the Project Diabetes program of the Tennessee Department of Health. The grant will be used for property acquisition and trail construction in Grundy County, and to promote children’s wellness activities.
“The MGTA is very gratified to receive our third Project Diabetes grant. We hope that with this funding we can connect the trail from Monteagle to Tracy City, while continuing to support programs that promote health and wellness for young people,” said Patrick Dean, executive director of the MGTA.
Project Diabetes funding was previously used for construction of the two-mile section of the trail from Tracy City Elementary School to Ingman Farm Road, and for two short segments between the DuBose Center and Cumberland Bible Chapel in Monteagle. The grants also have supported the Grundy Run Clubs in elementary schools, and the Tracy City Old Roundhouse Park.
“The Tennessee Department of Health is pleased to partner with the Mountain Goat Trail Alliance to open up access to physical activity in the most beautiful part of Tennessee. The trail will enhance the mental and physical health of all who spend time on it for many years to come,” said Joan Cook, director of the Project Diabetes program.
The Mountain Goat Trail is a rail-trail initiative to build a 40-mile walking and cycling path along the route of the historic Mountain Goat Railroad, from Cowan in Franklin County to Palmer in Grundy County. For more information go to www.mountaingoattrail.org