MONTGOMERY — Gov. Kay Ivey has announced two grants totaling nearly $600,000 to make improvements to enhance the quality of life and boost tourism in the town of Mentone.
A $300,000 grant will help restore and repurpose a historic school as a business and community center, while a $295,000 grant will fund upgrades to an aging water system that serves the town. Both grants are being provided through the Appalachian Regional Commission.
“The scenic town of Mentone, situated on Lookout Mountain, is an increasingly sought-after destination for people in search of a unique mountain getaway,” Gov. Ivey said. “Improving the town’s water supply while restoring the historic Moon Lake school for businesses and community uses will only enhance Mentone’s offerings as a wonderful place to live and visit.”
The town plans to renovate the former Moon Lake Elementary School to transform it into Moon Lake Village – an activity center featuring small shops, a cultural center and meeting area. The main school building was constructed in 1929 and served as a school until 2021, when the town acquired and other buildings on the campus, including a gymnasium and cafeteria. Currently 13 businesses occupy the campus, and the town hopes to expand that number while preserving the site as a community hub.
The water project involves replacing the 4-inch iron water line along Alabama Highway 117 with 2,300 feet of 10-inch, heavy-duty ductile iron pipe. The upgrade is expected to significantly improve water pressure and flow through the system ensuring a more reliable water supply for residents and businesses.
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grants.
“Both of these projects will greatly benefit the town of Mentone, improving the quality of life for residents and appeal for visitors,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “ADECA is pleased to be a partner along with Gov. Ivey and the Appalachian Regional Commission in these projects that will enhance the community’s charm and boost tourism for the area.”
The Appalachian Regional Commission is an economic development agency of the federal government and 13 state governments. The agency’s mission is to innovate, partner, and invest to build community capacity and strengthen economic growth in Appalachia to help the region achieve socioeconomic parity with the nation. Thirty-seven Alabama counties, including DeKalb County, are part of the ARC region and eligible for funds.
ADECA manages a range of programs that support law enforcement, economic development, recreation, energy conservation and water resource management.
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