Hamilton calls on Holcomb to fund trails for a better Indiana

INDIANAPOLIS – State Representative Carey Hamilton (D-Indianapolis), co-chair of the Indiana Legislative Trails Caucus, recently advocated for funds to support Hoosiers' physical and mental health as part of economy-growing infrastructure investments in a letter to Governor Holcomb.

Hamilton was joined by fellow co-chairs State Representative Anthony Cook (R-Cicero), State Senator Dennis Kruse (R- Auburn) and State Senator Eddie Melton (D-Gary) in requesting Holcomb re-instate $30 million in funding for the second round of Next Level Trails applications as a critical response to the COVID-19 crisis. Communities were waiting on an expected March announcement for shovel-ready projects when the Governor froze and then, on May 22, eliminated funds.

“As we are rebuilding the economy of Indiana due to the effects of COVID-19 it is important to capitalize on economic, environmental, recreation, health and community benefits that already exist in our state,” Hamilton said.

“Trail projects bring more jobs per dollar invested than road construction, and investments in trails secure lasting economic benefits for our Hoosier communities as local businesses develop along trails and our state attracts more visitors. From a public health response perspective, trails are more important than ever before, as they provide vital physical and mental health benefits to Hoosiers.”

Read the full letter below: