LYNCHBURG, Tenn. — As the home of a global whiskey brand, it’s no secret that tiny Lynchburg receives it’s fair share of tourist each year. Now, with the halp of a Department of Tourist Development grant and matching dollars from The Jack Daniel Distillery, Lynchburg will receive nearly $100, 000 for local tourism.
Moore County was one of 29 communities to receive over $2.22 million in Tourism Enhancement Grants. Other southern, middle Tennessee communities receiving grants included the town of Tracy City, and the City of Columbia.
According to the press release, Moore County’s grant will be used to fund the renovation or replacement of Moorehead Pavilion in Wiseman Park including new restrooms, septic repairs, electrical work, light replacements, a ice machine room remodel, ceiling fan installation, ground leveling to reduce potholes, and driveway repairs. Moorehead Pavilion host the annual Jack Daniel’s Barbecue, Frontier Days, and host of other local events each year.
“Jack Daniel’s will graciously match the grant and the South Central Tennessee Tourism Association (SCTTA) wrote it and will be administering the grant,” said SCTTA Executive Director Ryan French. “These improvements will happen at zero cost to the local community.”
Tennessee’s Tourism Enhancement Grants support cities and counties seeking to invest in their local tourism assets, lift visitation and increase economic impact. Eligible projects included stages, signage, historic preservation, ADA compliancy and other improvements to local attractions and venues.
“Tourism is vital for the growth and sustainability of communities throughout Tennessee, especially in our rural communities,” said Melanie Beauchamp, Assistant Commissioner of Rural Tourism and Outreach, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. “These projects create opportunities for visitors, enhance the quality of life for residents and ultimately, bring more funds back into the communities.”
“We’ve seen first-hand how tourism can transform communities,” added Commissioner Mark Ezell, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. “Tourism development is economic development, and these investments are essential to Governor Lee’s mission to expand opportunity for rural Tennesseans.”
For more information about the specifics of the grants, reach out to the SCTTA via their website. •
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