Home » More than $1.1 million awarded for recreational trail projects

More than $1.1 million awarded for recreational trail projects

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Nov. 20, 2013) – Gov. Steve Beshear today announced more than $1.1 million in 2013 Recreational Trail Program (RTP) grants to develop and maintain 20 trail projects throughout Kentucky.

“Developing Kentucky trails is key to increasing our state’s overall adventure tourism efforts and infusing money into local economies,” Beshear said. “This funding helps our communities to not only open new trail projects, but to also improve on existing ones so that they can bring in tourism dollars and enhance the quality of life for local residents.”

Since 2008, First Lady Jane Beshear has been a leader in improving and promoting adventure tourism across the state. She joins the governor as a strong supporter for the RTP.

“We are fortunate to live in a state filled with unique natural resources that offer many opportunities to participate in outdoor activities and tourism ventures,” said Mrs. Beshear. “The RTP program funding helps Kentucky towns and counties develop top quality recreational destinations and promote healthy, active lifestyles in our communities.”

RTP grants may be used to provide assistance for acquisition of easements; development and/or maintenance of recreational trails; and trailhead facilities for both motorized and nonmotorized use. Examples of trail uses include hiking, cycling, inline skating, equestrian use, off-road motorcycling and all-terrain vehicle riding.

The 20 RTP grant recipients for 2013 include:

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The RTP is funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration, and Kentucky’s RTP is administered by the Department for Local Government.  It requires that nonmotorized trail applicants match the amount of funds requested to receive a 50 percent reimbursement on approved projects, and that motorized trail applicants match the amount of funds requested to receive an 80 percent reimbursement. Those eligible to apply include city and county governments and state and federal agencies.

RTP applicants that also applied to become a Kentucky Trail Town received additional points in the RTP selection process. Trail Towns are certified through the Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet, and are communities near trail systems that help boost local tourism and economic growth through an atmosphere of trail-friendly businesses that cater to trail users.

For more info on Kentucky recreational trails and other adventure tourism efforts in the state, visit http://www.kentuckytourism.com/outdoor_adventure/great_outdoors.aspx.