COLUMBUS, OH – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) announced that 14 recreational trails in Ohio have been selected to share a total of $1,689,759 in federal funds through the Recreational Trails Program (RTP). While none of these projects are in the Miami Valley, development of trails across Ohio is always good news.
“We are always encouraging people to get out and enjoy Ohio’s scenic outdoors,” said Deputy Director Glen Cobb. “With these grants we can help improve the quality of our trails so that more visitors can benefit and have a positive experience.”
ODNR received 66 RTP grant applications, and the agency awarded funding to 14 projects. More than 170 local trail projects across the state have received more than $21 million in federal funds through ODNR since RTP began in 1993. A few examples of criteria for projects receiving funding included: justification of trail need, trail linkages and public participation.
ODNR administers federal grants, including the RTP, which provides funding for non-motorized and motorized trails. RTP is a reimbursement program that provides up to 80 percent of a project’s funding. This funding goes to projects that create and maintain trails and trail support facilities, improve access for people with disabilities, and provide education about trail safety and the environment.
Funding for RTP comes from the U.S. Federal Highway Administration through a portion of the federal motor fuel excise tax collected from non-highway recreational fuel use.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at www.ohiodnr.com. A complete list of the selected projects can be viewed here.
