COLUMBUS – Eighteen recreational trail projects across Ohio will soon share $1,095,000 in federal grants, based on recommendations by Gov. Bob Taft and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
Recreational trail projects in 20 counties are likely to receive funds from the Recreational Trails Program, pending final approval by the Federal Highway Administration in coming months.
“Recreational trails contribute significantly to the economic well being of our state and enhance the quality of life of all Ohioans,” said Taft. “These grants will help our local partners expand and improve Ohio’s system of recreational trails.”
The largest recommended award, $140,000 for the Monday Creek ATV Trail, will go to the U.S. Forest Service to restore and maintain 30 miles of off-road vehicle trails in Wayne National Forest in Hocking and Perry counties.
The City of Ravenna was recommended to receive $120,000 for a 5,000-foot trail on a former railroad right-of-way between Chestnut Hills Park and the Towner Woods Rail Trail.
ODNR reviews local applications for grants and recommends successful recipients for final federal approval. The federal government provides up to 80 percent reimbursement for trail projects through each grant, while the local project sponsor is responsible for the remainder.
Federal funds supporting the program are derived from a portion of the federal gasoline tax attributed to motorized recreational use. At least 30 percent of Ohio’s annual allocation under the program must benefit trails for motorized vehicles.
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