Trail Flow is a roundup of all the mountain bike trail related news of the week including new trail builds, advocacy, and planning. Do you have trail news? Email [email protected] for possible inclusion.
Close to $4 million awarded for Illinois trail projects
Illinois
A total of more than $3.7 million has been awarded to different recreational trail development projects in 19 Illinois communities to “help them meet the growing demand for improved trails and outdoor recreation facilities,” JB Pritzker, the governor of the state and the Department of Natural Resources announced in a press release.
The project will give up to 80% reimbursement to grant recipients for trail projects. The grants can be awarded for land acquisition, trail construction and maintenance, the buying of trail building equipment, and trailhead facilities. The DNR identified several non-motorized projects for the grants, listed in the press release.
Section of Canyon Trail to open to bikes in Marin
Marin County, California
A plan to place two bridges over San Anselmo Creek in Cascade Canyon has made a step forward in progress, according to the Marin County Bicycle Coalition. The project was originally a public proposal and would remove recreation from the San Anselmo Creek channel, improve accessibility for trail users, and allow them to safely pass the trail during wet weather without crossing through the creek.
Community college receives approval for Trail Technician educational program
Bentonville, Arkansas
Northwest Arkansas Community College (NWACC) recently received approval for its unique Trails Trade School and Trail Technician Program. The educational offering includes hands-on training and the curriculum will cover trail maintenance, design, and environmental stewardship. Graduates of the program can receive certification in a variety of areas.
Michigan plans urban MTB trail network
Midland, Michigan
The Central Michigan Mountain Bike Association is planning a network or “grid” of trails throughout the city of Midland, with a plan to connect the entirety of the city with mountain bike trails. The organization has been given a grant from Shimano and raised $13,000 in matching funds.
Comments solicited for Mad Rabbit Trails Project
Steamboat Springs, Colorado
The USFS is seeking public comment on a project “to improve the connectivity and sustainability of the recreational trail system around Steamboat Springs,” according to a release from IMBA. Learn more about the project and submit comments here.
Now is also a good time to voice support for the EXPLORE Act making its way through Congress.
