Clean Ohio Trails Fund Seeks Grant Proposals

By Lou Yuhasz on February 18th, 2009

Fall Reflections
Image by swisscan via Flickr

COLUMBUS, OH – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), which administers the Clean Ohio Trails Fund, is reviewing grant proposals for trail projects across the state that will help develop and revitalize communities.

The Clean Ohio Trails Fund is one of four components of the Clean Ohio Fund, which restores, protects and connects Ohio’s natural and urban places. Ohioans approved the establishment of the $400 million bond program in 2000 and it was a critical component of the 2008 Ohio Bipartisan Job Stimulus Plan. An extension of the Clean Ohio Fund was overwhelmingly accepted at the ballot last year.

ODNR received 40 grant applications for the Clean Ohio Trails Fund from local entities statewide. Total projects are expected to cost $24.9 million with grant requests totaling $10.1 million. Applicants must provide a 25 percent local match for their projects. ODNR will award $6.25 million in Clean Ohio Trails Fund grants in 2009. Recipients will be notified this summer.

“The Clean Ohio Trails Fund helps build and maintain infrastructure that allows communities to conveniently connect to nature,” said ODNR Director Sean Logan. “The investments help facilitate travel, enhance educational opportunities and provide safe, scenic areas where Ohioans can hike, bike or run and build healthy lifestyles.”

The Clean Ohio Trails Fund improves outdoor recreational opportunities for Ohioans. Special emphasis is given to projects that:

Are consistent with the statewide trail plan;

  • Complete regional trail systems and links to the statewide trail plan;
  • Link population centers with outdoor recreation area and facilities;
  • Involve the purchase of rail lines linked to the statewide trail plan;
  • Preserve natural corridors;
  • Provide links in urban areas to support commuter access and provide economic benefit.

To date, the Clean Ohio Trail Fund has dedicated $25 million to provide thousands of Ohioans with better access to recreational opportunities through the creation of 219 miles of trails.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at www.ohiodnr.com

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