State Rep. Andrew Farmer announces $337K grant for community revitalization project in Jefferson County

State Rep. Andrew Farmer, R-Sevierville, today announced more than $337K in grant money for a project in Jefferson County from the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD).

New Market in Jefferson County received a $337,725 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), which will go toward demolishing a mold-infested gymnasium connected to the city hall building. In its current state, the mold infestation risks spreading to the city hall. Following demolition, New Market plans to construct a covered outdoor basketball court at the location.

“The longer New Market’s city hall stays connected to the gym, the more susceptible it becomes to a serious mold infestation,” Farmer said. “This much-needed grant will help in the building’s preservation and I’m appreciative of TNECD’s work in approving it. I look forward to the basketball court the city plans to replace the gym with, which will serve as a place of competition and fellowship for years to come.”

More than $37.8 million was requested from 83 eligible applications in five categories, including public health and safety, community infrastructure, community revitalization, water system improvements, and sewer system improvements.

The allocation of CDBG funds is based on priorities set through the public meeting process at the local community level. The CDBG program is funded through HUD and administered in Tennessee by the Department of Economic and Community Development.

State Rep. Andrew Farmer represents House District 17, which includes part of Jefferson and Sevier counties.