Cumberland Gap, Tenn. (May 20, 2025)––Nonprofit group Guardians of the Gap® was awarded a $300,000 Downtown Improvement Grant (DIG) in 2024 from the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD). The grant will be used to help improve commercial buildings’ exteriors, wayfinding signage, and other public space improvements. Acquiring this grant was made possible by the Cumberland Gap Downtown Improvement Committee, the Guardians Board, and town officials, who worked hard to secure these funds for needed improvements and town beautification.
Through the extensive application process, the committee was able to successfully illustrate the need for improvements around town as well as the ability to execute an effective project plan for the upgrades. Individual Cumberland Gap businesses or commercial building owners who are located in the downtown district may apply for reimbursement for a portion of their upgrades. The application period opened in May and closes in July. For a DIG application process, deadlines, and updates, visit www.townofcumberlandgap.com/downtown-improvement-grant-marketing/.
“The Guardians will hold open office hours weekly to help eligible business and property owners get their application completed and provide guidance along their project process,” says Kimberly Kotlar, Guardians of the Gap Board Member and DIG Project Coordinator. “We’ll help make sure all the necessary details are covered so eligible businesses can successfully take full advantage of this wonderful program provided by TNECD.”
To request further information on the grant or the Guardians of the Gap, email guardiansofthegap@gmail.com.
The Town of Cumberland Gap has a rich history, most notably due to Daniel Boone leading pioneers through the physical mountain pass from which the town gets its name, earning it the moniker “Gateway to the West.” Today, the town is known for everything from its specialty shops, assorted dining options, vast outdoor activities (including over 80 miles of picturesque hiking trails), and more. The majority of the downtown area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The town is located approximately one hour north of Knoxville at the tri-state border of Tennessee, Kentucky, and Virginia. To learn about Cumberland Gap or get updates on town events and festivals, visit www.townofcumberlandgap.com.