Hamilton: Trail grants will improve quality of life for Hoosiers
INDIANAPOLIS – State Rep. Carey Hamilton (D-Indianapolis) applauds the latest funding for Hoosier trails infrastructure, made possible in large part by the work of the bipartisan Legislative Trails Caucus. Thanks to the focused efforts of the Trails Caucus, the Next Level Trails program received $60 million during the 2021 biennium budget process, significantly extending the life of the program.
Announced April 20, the third round of the Next Level Trails program totals $65 million for 77 miles of new trail development. With matching funds from applicants, the estimated total investment is more than $102 million.
Hamilton, founder and co-chair of the bipartisan Legislative Trails Caucus, has also been working at the local level, alongside a wide range of community stakeholders to help secure funding for the Nickel Plate trail in Marion County. With a $5 million grant from the Next Level Trails program, this section of trail will finally be built.
“The Nickel Plate Trail will be a transformative project for the northeast side of Indianapolis,” Hamilton said. “I’m thankful to all of the neighborhood leaders and community stakeholders who worked tirelessly to build support for the trail and put together a winning application.
“This is an exciting moment for the residents of House District 87, as well as Hoosiers across the state who will be positively impacted with this historic trails infrastructure investment,” Hamilton continued. “Expanding our trails network spurs local economic development and strengthens neighborhoods, while improving quality of life and public health for Hoosiers.”
For more information about the Next Level Trails Program click here.