Enhancing the enjoyment of visitors to city-owned trails and parks is the focus of a grant sought by McMinnville Parks and Recreation Department.

According to director Scott McCord, the funds would come from the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development and would be used to enhance Hobbs Park and Salley’s Alley.

“The grant would be used for informational kiosks, signage, benches and tables, fitness equipment, habitat houses and vegetation to attract local wildlife,” McCord said. “The scope of the work would be to River Trail East beginning at Hobbs Park, continuing through Sally’s Alley, connecting to River Trail North and ending at Rocket Park.”

A reimbursable grant, it would be $28,500 with a 10 percent match.

“The city is responsible for 10 percent,” said McCord. “It’s a 90/10 grant. That would leave the city with $2,850 our responsibility after reimbursement. The plan is not to change the scope of the work, but to develop a broad plan for signage at all trail locations and install physical features to enhance the experience visitors have on the new trail.”

Permission to apply was made before members of the city Parks and Recreation Committee.

“Do you think we would be able to hit that number and use all of that amount?” asked Alderman Ben Newman.

McCord replied, “We would try as best we can.”

“If we could use all of it, I would like to,” said Newman.

Application approval was given.

If awarded, the measure would be presented to the Board of Mayor and Aldermen for its approval.