Federal Funding Will Benefit Livingston And Overton County
July 29, 2005, LIVINGSTON – U.S. Rep. Bart Gordon has been able to secure $40,000 in a federal transportation bill that will help the Courthouse Square Committee install decorative paving that will be used for crosswalks.
The decorative paving will help complete the Courthouse Square’s ongoing renovation project, which has included new pavement, sidewalks, lighting and storm-water drains.
The funding was included in the highway bill, which was approved by the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate today (July 29).
“Livingston and Overton County, as well as their business community, have worked closely on this revitalization project,” said Gordon, dean of the state’s congressional delegation. “Because so many people conduct business on the Public Square, it makes sense to keep the area vibrant.”
“That’s why I have worked closely with local, state and federal officials to make sure the community has the resources it needs to be a desirable place to live and raise a family. Residents of Livingston and Overton County are fortunate to have good schools, a good business community and an enviable quality of life.”
John Roberts, executive director of the Livingston-Overton County Chamber of Commerce, said the Courthouse Square Committee has worked on the renovation project for the past four years.
“The Courthouse Square Committee works hard on this project,” said Roberts. “It’s a great community effort, and it has given people pride in the area.”
Livingston Mayor Frank Martin and Overton County Mayor Kenneth Copeland agreed.
“We have a beautiful, old-town atmosphere,” said Martin. “The paving will be a great addition to the other improvements on the square.”
Copeland added that the project is useful as an “economic development tool.”
“Companies look at the square and the existing business community before they locate here,” said Copeland.
The county will receive even more federal funding with $300,000 for an access road for the Overton County Industrial Park.
“I’m pleased I could work together with Senators Alexander and Frist to obtain funding for projects that will improve the infrastructure and quality of life in Overton County,” said Gordon.
“A community that’s serious about economic development has to have good schools, reliable utilities and sound infrastructure in place. Top-notch companies that pay good wages demand these things when looking for communities in which to locate.”
