North Birmingham Times

Congressman Robert Aderholt has announced a $300,000 grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) for the Town of Mentone. The funding is intended to support renovations and revitalization efforts at Moon Lake Village, with local contributions matching the amount for a total of $600,000.

"As a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, I know firsthand that it is Congress that appropriates the funding for the Appalachian Regional Commission," stated Congressman Aderholt. "I have long supported ARC’s mission of fostering economic development in Appalachian communities, and I am pleased to see these funds being used for such an important project in Mentone. The renovation of Moon Lake Village will not only preserve a piece of local history but also enhance tourism, support small businesses, and provide opportunities for community engagement."

The project aims to address safety, accessibility, and structural issues within the 5,200-square-foot former elementary school building. This building currently serves as a hub for local artisan businesses and community events. Planned improvements include upgrades to electrical and HVAC systems, repairs to damaged subfloors, ensuring ADA compliance, and reconfiguring space to accommodate community college classes and public gatherings. These enhancements are projected to increase annual visitors by approximately 1,000 and boost traffic to thirteen artisan businesses operating within Moon Lake Village.

"Moon Lake Village has been an integral part of Mentone’s history, and this investment ensures that it will continue to serve the community for generations to come," Aderholt added. "I am proud to support projects like this that preserve our heritage while also driving economic growth."

The Appalachian Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership focused on promoting economic development in the Appalachian region through targeted investments in infrastructure needs, workforce development, and business expansion.

For more information on Moon Lake Village: https://www.mentonealabama.gov/moon-lake-village