RI Awards $148k In Recreational Trail Grants In Middletown

TOWN — TOWN was one of 22 communities that received grant funding from the Rhode Island government to improve recreational trails. In total, the departments of transportation and environmental management awarded about $1.4 million in grants.

"Our state’s vast network of recreational trails enhances the enjoyment of Rhode Island’s tremendous natural resources and provides an opportunity for people of all ages to enjoy nature and get fit by taking a walk or a hike in a peaceful, relaxing setting," Gov. Dan McKee said. "It is a pleasure to award these federal grants to develop new recreational trails and hiking paths and make needed upgrades to existing facilities in communities across Rhode Island."

Two projects were approved in Middletown, totaling more than $148,000.

The first, worth $80,000, was awarded to the town to expand the trail network at the Middletown Valley Park. In 2019, the town acquired 12.5 acres of land, bringing the total park to 45.5 acres. The town will use the funding to build a little over half a mile of trails in the new area.

The second grant, worth $68,600, was awarded to the Norman Bird Sanctuary. The funding will be used to make improvements to high-traffic trails, restoring part of the ADA-compliant trail and the associated trailhead parking area and replacing the boardwalk over Paradise Brook on the Gray Craig Trail.

Grants were awarded based on applications submitted to the DEM last winter. Each was reviewed by the Trails Advisory Committee. The funding can be used to create new, restore or improve trails, both for hiking and other recreational uses. Grants cover up to 80 percent of the costs associated with the projects.

"Rhode Island is fortunate to enjoy a strong network of active municipalities and non-profit organizations seeking to provide new and expanded opportunities for Rhode Islanders to explore the beauty of our state's natural areas and woodlands," said Acting DEM Director Terry Gray. "DEM and DOT staff work closely with Federal Highway Administration representatives to support these many wonderful projects."