Governor announces trails money, Hart County to receive $100,000

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Gov. Andy Beshear announced Monday his selection of 12 projects totaling $692,058 to receive funding from the Recreational Trails Program, all of which will upgrade parks and recreational spaces across Kentucky.

Communities selected for funding are Carroll County, Franklin County, Garrard County, Harlan County, Hart County, Henderson County, Martin County, Perry County, Shelby County, Madisonville, Morganfield and Corbin.

“Our parks and outdoor spaces are critically important in our communities and enhance the quality of life for Kentuckians by providing safe, green spaces to exercise and spend time with loved ones,” said Gov. Beshear. “Additionally, as we work to make Kentucky a world-class tourist destination, some of these improvements will attract tourism dollars that will help strengthen our economy to build the better Kentucky we’ve always imagined.

RTP is a competitive, federal program aimed at improving communities and enhancing quality of life by providing assistance for easement acquisitions, trailhead facility upgrades and recreational trail development and maintenance.

To receive funding, administered at the state level by the Department for Local Government (DLG), selected applicants must still undergo an environmental review and receive clearance from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) and approval by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

DLG Commissioner Dennis Keene applauded selected communities on these awards.

“Congratulations to all of the communities selected for trail improvements,” said Commissioner Keene. “Because of your work, families in all corners of Kentucky will have access to better parks and recreational spaces. We look forward to the completion of these projects and the prosperity they will provide our communities across the commonwealth.”

Hart County will use $100,000 to construct the Hart County Historical Society Civil War Battlefield Walking Trail, which will include gravel and paved trails, a parking lot, benches, signage and a trailhead at the Woodson House site.