The community of Madisonville has been selected by Governor Andy Beshear as one of twelve projects in Kentucky to receive funding from the Recreational Trails Program (RTP). The governor says the projects total more than $692,000 and the funding will be to upgrade parks and recreational spaces across the state.
Madisonville will use $20,000 on a paved walking trail around the perimeter of Cherry Park.
According to the Beshear administration, RTP is a competitive, federal program aimed at improving communities and enhancing the 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 of Local Government (DLG), officials note selected applicants must still undergo an environmental review and receive clearance from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and approval by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).
DLG Commissioner Dennis Keene applauded the communities selected to receive these awards for trail improvements. He added families in all corners of Kentucky will have access to better parks and recreational spaces.