Southern Indiana Business Report
INDIANAPOLIS — Gov. Eric J. Holcomb and Indiana Department of Natural Resources Director Dan Bortner announced April 20 that 38 communities and non-profit organizations around the state will receive a combined $65 million for 77 miles of new trail development as a part of the third round of the Next Level Trails program.
The grants awarded in the third round include 17 regional projects and 21 local projects, and among the local projects receiving funding is an effort in Jasper. The grant of $2 million will close gaps in the existing Jasper trail network by adding 1.6 miles of trail. The new trail connects to the existing Buffalo Trace Connector Trail to the east and the St. Charles/Portersville Road Trail to the west. The trail provides connections to both Jasper Middle School and Jasper High School, as well as the River Centre, Thyen Clark Cultural Center, and Buehler Plaza
“Trails connect communities together in such a personal way and are perfect pathways to good mental and physical well-being,” Holcomb said. “These continued quality-of-life investments will reap generational economic and tourism development dividends and further showcase Indiana’s incredible outdoor experiences.”
A $150 million grant program, Next Level Trails is the largest infusion of trails funding in state history. In rounds one and two, a total of $55 million was awarded to 35 communities. To date, $120 million has been awarded to build 190 miles of trails throughout Indiana. Ninety-four percent of Hoosiers live within five miles of a trail.
“The DNR listens to the recreational and outdoor needs of Hoosiers,” Bortner said. “We are excited to expand our partnerships with local governments and non-profits to bring these important connections and amenities to communities across Indiana.”
The third-round grant recipients are contributing $37.4 million in matching value, resulting in a $102.4 million total investment in trails. The program requires a minimum 20% project match, which can include monetary contributions, land value, and in-kind donations of materials and labor.
More information on all projects can be found here.
Next Level Trails is part of Gov. Holcomb’s $1 billion Next Level Connections infrastructure program, which accelerates the completion of major highway projects, expands access to rural broadband services, and pursues the expansion of rail projects in northwest Indiana. The initial program received funds totaling $90 million; $60 million more was appropriated in the current biennial budget to bring the Next Level Trails investment to $150 million.