County gets ATV grant

The Cullman Times

The Cullman County Commission has been awarded a second grant to help build an off-road vehicle park in west Cullman County.

According to a press release from Gov. Bob Riley's office, the county will receive $449,976 to help purchase land for the park.

Over a five-year period, the county could be granted as much as $2.5 million for the park, according to Director of Cullman County Economic Development Sammie Danford.

By the time it is completed, the park is expected to encompass nearly 1,500 acres of trails for four-wheelers, bikes and off-road trucks.

It is also possible the park will include trails for mountain biking, walking and horse-back riding.

"I think this thing is awesome," Danford said. "This park will be such an asset to Cullman County.

Earlier this year, the county received its first grant for the project. It came in the amount of $469,000. Both grants are being administered by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs.

Together, the two grants require the county to pledge $229,744 of its own money for the project.

Much has changed since the county first laid down plans for the park earlier this year, including its location.

Still to be located on Alabama Highway 69, the intended location has reportedly been moved further west, but planners are still negotiating for the purchase of the land.

According to Associate Commissioner Doug Williams, there is an alternate location if those plans fall through.

Danford said any location must be approved by various state and federal environmental and engineering agencies before ground breaking can take place.

Definite dates for purchasing land and ground breaking are still not available.

According to Williams, once completed, the new ORV park will provide the county with additional sources of revenue. It will also attract more people to the area, in creasing commerce.

"I'm very excited about this project," Williams said. "Not only will give people a place to ride, but it will bring much needed revenue to our county."

HAVE A SAFE AND FUN-FILLED SUMMER