BRISTOL, Tenn. (WJHL) — Bristol, Tennessee, is among 18 locales across the Volunteer State chosen to receive financial support for enhancing parks and recreation infrastructure.

The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) revealed on Thursday the distribution of $968,000 in grants from the Local Parks and Recreation Fund (LPRF) to these communities.

In the Northeast Tennessee region, Bristol secured $48,000 from the Planning Grant Program to aid in its recreational development efforts.

Mike Mains, the Director of Parks and Recreation for Bristol, Tennessee, expressed enthusiasm about the grant in a statement to News Channel 11. He explained that the funds will be pivotal in creating a new master plan aimed at enhancing the city’s recreational offerings.

“Being selected by TDEC for grant funding from the Local Parks and Recreation Fund is an exciting opportunity for us,” Mains remarked. “This planning grant is crucial for the formation of a comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan, marking a significant achievement for Bristol. This plan will set our future agenda for recreational programs, events, and facilities, while also gathering vital community input. Moreover, having a detailed plan will enable us to seek additional grant funding, which often necessitates an approved master plan. Bristol’s future is bright, and we are deeply appreciative of TDEC’s support and trust in our mission to serve our community.”

According to a TDEC news release, “The Planning Grant Program allocates state funds to match local government investments for communities eager to develop or improve a Parks and Recreation Systemwide Plan. This involves an 80 percent contribution from the state and a 20 percent from the local community.”

Deputy Director of Conservation for TDEC Greer Tidwell said the investments will improve the quality of life in Tennessee.