Rep. Clay Doggett announces $50K grant to establish Ardmore Parks and Recreation Department

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - State Rep. Clay Doggett, R-Pulaski, has announced $50,000 in state funding for the city of Ardmore to establish a parks and recreation department and hire a director.

The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) will administer the grant through the Tennessee Recreation Initiative Program (TRIP). The funding was approved by members of the Tennessee General Assembly this year in the 2025-26 state budget.

“Ardmore’s rich history and excellent recreational opportunities make it an exceptional recipient for this important grant,” said Doggett. “The establishment of a parks and recreation department is a much-needed development that will expand opportunities for residents and help enrich the quality of life in this thriving community. I thank the local leaders who worked hard to secure this funding, and I look forward to seeing the incredible impact a dedicated parks director will have on the success of the city.”

The state-funded TRIP helps cities and counties establish parks and recreation departments when they do not already have a comprehensive recreation delivery system and director.

More than $22 million has been administered to 33 communities across the state by TDEC this year through the TRIP, Local Parks and Recreation Fund program and the Recreational Trails Program.