Independence County Judge Robert Griffin announced Wednesday morning his office has received a $10,000 donation targeted for Batesville’s walking/biking trail project along Poke Bayou.
“I am asking the treasurer to create a fund for these specific types of donations that can be used only for the bayou trail project for which they are given,” Griffin said. “I am hopeful that the City of Batesville can complete mapping the pathway and securing the easements necessary in time to put this project into the August 2021 grant cycle. I appreciate their efforts in this cooperative project.
The $10,000 donation to begin this fund was made by Dr. Jim and Alice Lytle.
“Dr. Lytle had asked me several months ago about having a trail along the Bayou,” said Griffin. “I began a process based upon his suggestion and formed a committee of key players to address a pathway that fits into the master plan for Batesville but would use most of the total border of the bayou to extend the master plan. The City of Batesville agreed and we have moved forward.
“Dr. Lytle expressed to me that he had been greatly blessed by our community and county and felt he wanted to give back to help bring this project to fruition. It is connected to citizen health and wellness and having their support is most appropriate and symbolic. Many of the children he has delivered will be able to benefit from this. I am grateful to have their tremendous generosity bestowed upon this project, and I thank both Dr. Lytle and Mrs. Lytle for such. Independence County is indeed blessed.”
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