PARIS, Ky. – Gov. Steve Beshear joined with Department for Local Government Commissioner Tony Wilder Friday to announce two grants to the city of Paris that will significantly enhance community development efforts.

The first, a Community Block Development Grant (CBDG) totaling $500,000, will allow renovation and expansion of the Paris-Bourbon County YMCA Child Care Center.

"Ensuring that all of Kentucky’s children have a happy, safe and healthy start to life is one of my primary goals as governor," said Beshear. "This CDBG grant will pave the way for important advancements in nutrition, recreation and education for children in Bourbon County."

The project will renovate the existing areas of the child care center to create a space that is more conducive to child care activities and expand the area that is used for the child care center. The renovation will provide the facility with additional room for much needed learning centers and expanded classroom space. A major kitchen renovation will allow the facility to offer better nutrition, as well as provide a space to work with participating families about healthy eating and cooking habits.

"I am very happy to join with Governor Beshear in congratulating the Paris-Bourbon County YMCA on receiving this $500,000 grant to renovate and expand our Child Care Center," said Rep. Sannie Overly. "Work should begin very soon because the plans are complete and approved, this is very exciting for Bourbon County."

"I am always pleased when the City of Paris receives funds and that is especially true when that money is directed at creating a safer, more efficient environment for our most precious residents – our children. These renovations will allow the child care center to expand its services to other children as well as improve upon the services already offered," said Sen. R. J. Palmer II.

The second grant, totaling $885,000, is part of the Transportation Enhancement (TE) program and will be used toward the continued construction of the Stoner Creek Bike and Pedestrian Bridge Project in Paris. The trail system will give Paris and Bourbon County residents additional opportunities to walk or bike to or from their homes and workplace, utilizing the unique access to public property between two parks. Additionally, the project will enable further opportunities for historical and biological exploration of the area while promoting a healthy, active recreational lifestyle.

"During these difficult economic times, we have the opportunity to rethink how we live our daily lives to become more economically sound and environmentally aware citizens," said Beshear. "The expansion of the Stoner Creek Bike and Pedestrian Bridge Project will make staying healthy, going ‘green’ and reducing fuel emissions much easier for families in Bourbon County."

"This project is a significant milestone for the Stoner Creek Trail project," acting Transportation Secretary Mike Hancock said. "Now the community will be able enjoy the parks through a connected multiuse path that ties residential, educational and professional environments together."