MONTGOMERY – Cullman’s downtown revitalization plan has received a boost or, more like 500,000 of them, for improvements at Depot Park.
Through a $500,000 grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission announced by Gov. Kay Ivey, the city will expand Depot Park from two to five acres using three acres of industrial property adjacent to the existing park. Planned additions to the park include a main lawn area with paved walkways on the perimeter and a permanent stage for concerts.
“Public parks are the focal point of community pride, and these improvements will allow Cullman’s Depot Park to better accommodate large events and enable the city to foster a more vibrant downtown atmosphere,” Ivey said. “I expect this project to be a boon to both residents and visitors, and a spark for economic activity in the downtown area.”
Project plans include upgrades to the cement storm drain system, new sidewalks that are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, pole lighting throughout the park, new electrical services, a berm for separation of the park from the railroad tracks and construction of a new service road. The renovated park also will feature decorative site lighting, benches and picnic tables to encourage year-round use by the community.
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs administers the ARC program in Alabama.
“This project will increase foot traffic to the 250 businesses in downtown Cullman and create three new acres of space for the enjoyment of residents,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “I join Gov. Ivey in applauding city leaders for their revitalization efforts.”
Local sources will provide an additional $500,000 to supplement the ARC grant, bringing the total funding to $1 million.
ARC is an economic development agency of the federal government and 13 state governments. The agency’s mission is to innovate, partner, and invest to build community capacity and strengthen economic growth in Appalachia to help the region achieve socioeconomic parity with the nation. Thirty-seven Alabama counties, including Cullman County, are part of the ARC region and eligible for funds.
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