Manhattan's Round Barn Farm To Get $200K for Trail Improvements

SPRINGFIELD, IL — The Manhattan Park District will be among more than a dozen recipients of State funds, to be spent improving the trail system at Round Barn Farm. In the works are plans for one mile of new, accessible, multi-use trails that will allow residents access to the entire park, and the enhancement of the trail system with a new bike repair station and interpretive signage, park district officials said Friday.

Gov. JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources announced Wednesday that more than $3.7 million has been awarded for recreational trail development projects in 19 Illinois communities to help them meet the growing demand for improved trails and outdoor recreation facilities, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources announced today.

"Trail development projects contribute to safer transportation and improved recreation opportunities across Illinois," said Gov. Pritzker. "This grant program helps us maintain these indispensable spaces for bike riders, hikers, joggers and families to enjoy our state's natural beauty."

The program provides up to 80% reimbursement to local grant recipients for the cost of trail projects, with local sponsors providing the balance of the funding, according to a release from the State. Grants may 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.

"This project will provide additional recreational-use trails at Round Barn Farm, lay the groundwork for future regional trail connections, and is a step towards achieving the outdoor recreation amenities envisioned in the Round Barn Farm Master Plan," the Manhattan Park District said Friday.

The 19 projects selected for the funding were recommended by the Illinois Greenways and Trails Council, which is overseen by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and is made up of representatives of statewide motorized and non-motorized user organizations, state agencies, organizations involved in greenways and trails, and metro-area greenways and trails coalitions.

"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."