Clean Ohio Funding Will Expand Trail Projects
COLUMBUS, OH – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), which administers the Clean Ohio Trails Fund, recently approved 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 awarded 25 Clean Ohio Trails Fund grants for community projects that will complete regional trail systems and links to the statewide trail plans, link population centers with outdoor recreation areas and facilities, preserve natural corridors and link urban areas to support commuter access and provide economic benefits.
“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.”
Grants totaling $6.25 million will support projects to improve outdoor recreational opportunities for Ohioans, which are expected to cost as much as $22.6 million. Grant recipients, listed at www.ohiodnr.com, will provide a 25 percent local match for their projects.
To date, the Clean Ohio Trail Fund has dedicated more than $31 million to provide thousands of Ohioans with better access to recreational opportunities through the creation of more than 228 miles of trails and the acquisition of 50 acres of abandoned railroad and greenway corridors.
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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For further information, contact:
Dameyon Shipley
614. 265. 6646
Beth Ruth, ODNR Media Relations
614. 265. 6860