Anniston selected for Livable Communities Program

Anniston is one of four cities selected for up to $250,000 in technical assistance through a federal program geared toward economic development and developing local food sources.  The Environmental Protection Agency, the Appalachian Regional Commission and the Department of Agriculture have selected Anniston for the Livable Communities program.  According to a news release announcing the award, Anniston will develop community and neighborhood gardens as part of a downtown revitalization project.  The program noted the economic impact on Anniston over the past 20 years with the closing of Fort McClellan, major iron foundries and manufacturers. According to the EPA, a team of development experts will work with the winning communities to develop plans for healthy food production and distribution. The other winning cities proposed creating or expanding farmers markets to fuel their local economies and feed needy families.