Hamilton receives award for work expanding Hoosier trails

INDIANAPOLIS – This week State Rep. Carey Hamilton (D-Indianapolis) received the 2021 Indiana Greenways Award for Outstanding Public Official, honoring her work in the General Assembly to advance trail access for all Hoosiers.

The Greenways Foundation recognized Hamilton for spearheading the launch of the bipartisan, bicameral Indiana Legislative Trails Caucus. The caucus, which she serves as a co-chair on, aims to develop legislative priorities to help grow, connect and maintain Indiana’s network of trails and greenways. 

In addition, prior to launching the Indiana Legislative Trails Caucus, Hamilton helped establish the Indiana Bicycle Trails Task Force in 2017. The work of the Task Force helped raise awareness about the importance of trails amongst key stakeholders including the legislature. 

“This is such an honor for me both personally and professionally,” Hamilton said. “Trails and greenways provide significant economic development, quality of life and public health benefits to the communities they serve. And today, with significant new trails funding in the recently passed biennial budget, we will begin to make a difference in the many communities still underserved by this crucial infrastructure. On a personal note, as a life-long runner, biker, hiker, walker and trail user, this work is particularly rewarding.  

“I'm thankful to the Greenways Foundation for all they do, and will continue to advocate alongside them. Their work in our Hoosier communities is so important to grow support for trails across the state. Their work has been especially valuable to me and my colleagues in the Indiana Legislative Trails Caucus this past year.” 

The Greenways Foundation is a statewide charitable trust that works to raise funds and support for the development, enhancement and operation of Indiana's greenways and trails. Their annual awards celebrate individuals, governments, public officials and corporations who demonstrate outstanding success in advocating for the growing Hoosier trail network.