back to press releases

Sen. Pemberton announces area trail grants

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department (OTRD) recently awarded more than $1.5 million in grants through the 2020 Recreational Trails Program (RTP). Sen. Dewayne Pemberton, R-Muskogee, announced that Muskogee and Tahlequah will be receiving funding to construct and improve recreational trails in the area.

“Any time we can get citizens out and active, it is a good thing. I am so excited that these two wonderful communities have received this funding and are investing in the health and well-being of their residents,” Pemberton said.  “Having a safe place for citizens to get out and get some exercise or just some fresh air is so important.  These recreational trails will be welcome additions to the communities.”

Muskogee received a $240,000 RTP grant to install an 8’ x 3,000’ concrete trail with a half mile loop and half a mile of primitive trails in Grandview Park.  The city is providing a sponsor match of $60,000. 

Tahlequah was also awarded a $240,000 RTP grant to construct a one-mile ADA compliant multi-use recreational trail in Mission Park.  Funding will also go towards facilities, parking, seating and signage.  The city will provide a $60,000 sponsor match for the project.

“These federal dollars will help communities provide new and improved tourism destinations that will provide an enhanced quality of life,” said Jerry Winchester, OTRD Executive Director. “These facilities will benefit not only Oklahoma residents, but also visitors that travel to our state.”

The RTP is a federal-aid assistance program for states for provision and maintenance of recreational trails for motorized and non-motorized use. The money for the projects is provided by federal transportation funds.  In Oklahoma, the program is managed by OTRD.

RTP guidelines require the funds be used for recreational trails and trails-related projects. Specific uses include: trail maintenance and restoration, land acquisition, construction of new trails, trail access for persons with disabilities, and development of trail-head and trail-side facilities.

 

-END-

For more information, contact: Sen. Pemberton: (405) 521-5533 or Dewayne.Pemberton@oksenate.gov

MAKE IT COUNT OKLAHOMA! An undercount in the census of just 2 percent can cost the state $1.8 billion in lost federal money over the next 10 years. Fill out your census form, Oklahoma. Learn more at: www.2020census.gov.