LEWIS COUNTY, TN. — Lewis County has been awarded a $210,000 ThreeStar Grant to support continued community development initiatives along the Buffalo River Blueway. The funding will further enhance one of the county’s most valuable natural and recreational assets while expanding public access and tourism opportunities.
Recently recognized by the State of Tennessee for its scenic and environmental significance, the Buffalo River serves as a vital waterway for Lewis County.
The ThreeStar Grant will support vital developments at the Buffalo River Blueway. Lewis County’s Blueway project has been praised by leaders and agencies across Tennessee, and won a state-wide award for being recognized as a “County Success Story” by the Tennessee County Services Association in 2024.
The grant requires no local match and will fund additional engineering and design work, signage improvements, informational kiosks, and public access enhancements at Texas Bottom Bridge.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) and other state agencies will work alongside Lewis County throughout the project to ensure environmental stewardship and protection of the river’s natural resources.
“This is tremendous news for our community,” said Lewis County Mayor Jonah Keltner, “because the Buffalo River Blueway provides an abundance of opportunities for swimming, fishing, kayaking, hiking, wildlife viewing, and outdoor family recreation.
“Now, thanks to this non-matching grant, the county will be able to continue improving the Blueway and expanding public access to the river.
“A big thanks to the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development, our state legislators, the Buffalo River Blueway Committee, the South Central Tennessee Development District, my staff, and everyone else who assisted with the planning, development, and grant application process.
“This is another example of how strategic partnerships and aggressive grant-seeking efforts can bring significant improvements to our community.”
The South Central Tennessee Development District serves as the grant administrator for the project and will continue working alongside Lewis County and its partners to ensure successful implementation of the grant-funded improvements.
Media Contact:
Sydney Brewer, Marketing & Communications Director
sbrewer@sctdd.org
