27 Jul 2022

City of Mena awarded $275,000 from EDA to build out their mountain bike trails!

posted in: Polk County, Community & Economic Development, Grants |
Notice of Investment Award
 
Title:
Travel, Tourism and Outdoor Recreation Program – Ward Lake Trails Construction Project
 
DOC Bureau:
Economic Development Administration
Investment No and Type:
08-79-05640 – Economic Adjustment Assistance (American Rescue Plan)
 
Applicant:
City of Mena
 
Contact Information:
Ashley Garris, Assistant Executive Director for the West Arkansas Planning and Development District (WAPDD)
(479) 785-2651; agarris@wapdd.org
 
City/County, State:
Mena/Polk County, AR

U.S. Congressional District
4
 
EDA Investment Amount:
$275,000

Total Project Cost:
$347,900

Anticipated Impact/Outcome:
Supports redevelopment and revitalization in the region to address the economic development needs of communities adversely affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

Description:  This EDA investment supports the city of Mena with constructing a mountain biking trail to add to the existing network of mountain bike trails in Polk and Montgomery Counties, Arkansas.  Approximately 6 miles of trails will be constructed, helping to expand existing businesses as part of an overall community plan, including a mountain bike base camp at an empty school.  The former middle school is located just 1.5 miles from the project site and the facility and a basecamp for mountain bikers and other outdoor enthusiasts with the downstairs to be retail and the upstairs residential will enhance established businesses as well as others in the process of opening and future businesses.  Once completed, the project will help increase employment opportunities, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region.                                                                                                                                             
The Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation program, funded through President Biden’s American Rescue Plan, is designed to help accelerate the recovery of the travel, tourism and outdoor recreation industry and build back the communities that depend on the industry. This program, totaling $750 million, included $510 million for states and territories and $240 million for competitive grants.  EDA grants are awarded through a competitive process based upon the application’s merit, the applicant’s eligibility, and the availability of funds.  More information on EDA’s grant process and investment process can be found at www.eda.gov.
 
Should you have any questions, please contact EDA at (202) 482-2900.