Arizona State Parks approved grant funding for 29 trail related projects totaling $3,079,377. Funds will be used to improve the state of existing trails and trail facilities and also to develop new trail systems. These motorized and non- motorized projects are funded through the federal Recreational Trails Program and the State’s Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Recreation Fund.
Three volunteer advisory committees consisting of non-motorized trail experts, motorized recreation specialists, and outdoor recreation professionals reviewed and provided feedback on projects and recommended levels of funding. The Arizona State Parks Board approved final funding in late July.
Projects that will be funded range from maintaining and enhancing current trails such as the non-motorized Maricopa Trail to developing 75+ miles of new OHV trails in Apache County. “As leaders of trails across the state, we are proud to be in the position of seeing these projects hit the ground,” says Executive Director Sue Black.
To find out more about the projects near you, check out the Arizona State Parks Grants Web site or contact Grants Coordinator, Mickey Rogers (602) 542-6942.
Publishers Note – Arizona has a wide geographic range of hiking trails all within easy driving distance from Phoenix. As a long-time resident it is always fascinating to hear from visitors and new comers alike who are surprised at the number of lakes and hiking trails Arizona has to offer. Until these people actually get to Arizona they are convinced that Arizona consists of nothing but desert.
Tell us your story about the many outdoor wonders of Arizona that you have discovered.
