December 1, 2016 – The Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Division of State Parks has recommended the following organizations within the Mid-Missouri RPC region for 2016 grant funding through the federal Recreational Trails Program (RTP):

• Columbia Parks & Recreation Department – trail informational kiosks, $10,000
• Missouri River Relief, Columbia-for educational and clean-up days on the Missouri River Water Trail $10,000
• Columbia Parks & Recreation Department – replacement of two trial bridges on the MKT Nature and Fitness Trail, $150,000
• Jefferson City Department of Parks, Recreation and Forestry – development of a trailhead, $150,000

The program is a federal pass-through grant administered by the Division of State Parks. The purpose of the program is to promote the development and maintenance of recreational trails throughout the state. Thirty-five RTP grant applications were received for 2016, with a total funding request of over $3.1 million. A total of 15 recreational trail projects were recommended to the Federal Highway Administration for final approval. The applications were evaluated on the basis of need, planning goals, and unique or special attributes.  

Grants are open to local and state governments, school districts, non-profit and for-profit organizations. The maximum amount awarded is $150,000 for trail projects and $10,000 for educational projects. Sponsors must have a minimum 20 percent match. 

More information regarding the Recreational Trails Program can be found here.