Lockport Receives $200K For Eighth Street Pedestrian Bridge

LOCKPORT, IL — The City of Lockport will receive $200,000 toward its Eighth Street pedestrian bridge, according to a release from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Lockport's project is one of 19 trail development projects across the state that will receive more than $3.7 million in funding.

“Trail development projects contribute to safer transportation and improved recreation opportunities across Illinois,” Governor JB Pritzker said in a release. “This grant program helps us maintain these indispensable spaces for bike riders, hikers, joggers and families to enjoy our state’s natural beauty.”

The state program provides up to 80 percent reimbursement to local grant recipients for the cost of trail projects, with local sponsors providing the balance of the funding, according to a release.

The grants could be awarded for land acquisition, trail construction and rehabilitation, purchase of equipment for trail development and maintenance, restoration of areas damaged by unauthorized trail use, construction of trail-related support facilities such as parking and restrooms, and educational programs.

“These projects will help provide safe places for children and families, hikers, bike riders, and horseback riders to enjoy the outdoors,” said Natalie Phelps Finnie, director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, which administers the federal Recreational Trails Program. “IDNR is pleased to partner with local governments to construct, improve, and maintain trails that benefit communities throughout Illinois.”