State Rep. Elaine Davis, R-Knoxville, has secured $50,000 in state funding to help Ijams Nature Center improve the accessibility of one of its walking trails for people with disabilities.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – State Rep. Elaine Davis, R-Knoxville, has secured $50,000 in state funding to help Ijams Nature Center improve the accessibility of one of its walking trails for people with disabilities.
Ijams Nature Center is a nonprofit environmental education center that manages more than 318 acres of protected land and offers low-cost educational programs for the community, according to its website.
“Spending time outdoors is essential for mental and physical health, and it also enhances education by fostering curiosity, observation skills and meaningful connections to nature,” Davis said. “This funding will expand opportunities for individuals with disabilities to experience the beauty of Ijams Nature Center. I’m incredibly grateful to my colleagues in the General Assembly for recognizing the importance of these improvements and to the Ijams team for their vision and dedication.”
The center features more than 14 miles of trails for hiking and biking, as well as opportunities for rock climbing, swimming and kayaking. Guests can bring their own bike or boat, but they also have rentals available. For more information on activities and opportunities, visit their website at: https://ijams/org/things-to-do.
“At Ijams Nature Center, we believe that nature should be accessible to everyone,” said Amber Parker, President and CEO of Ijams Nature Center. “This generous appropriation from the State of Tennessee allows us to renovate Serendipity Trail in the Homesite area so that people of all abilities, especially those with mobility challenges, can experience the peace, joy and wonder that nature provides. We are deeply grateful to Rep. Davis and the General Assembly for this support as we work to create a more inclusive and welcoming outdoor space for all.”
The appropriated funds are part of a $59.8 billion balanced budget passed by lawmakers in April. Republican priorities include significant investments to improve academic outcomes, provide disaster relief for victims of Hurricane Helene, enhance public safety across Tennessee and increase funding to address transportation infrastructure needs.
State Rep. Elaine Davis represents House District 18 which includes part of Knox County.
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