First Lady Jane Beshear's Communications Office
First Lady Jane Beshear Announces More Than $157,000 for Recreational Trail Projects in Western Kentucky

Grant recipients include Muhlenberg County, the city of Dawson Springs, the city of Nortonville

HOPKINSVILLE, Ky. – First Lady Jane Beshear today at the Pennyrile Area Development District announced more than $157,000 in Recreational Trail Program (RTP) grant funding for three projects in Western Kentucky.  The grants are for the Muhlenberg County Rail Trail, the Dawson Springs Park to Park project and the Nortonville Recreational Trails project. 

“Developing Kentucky trails is instrumental in increasing overall adventure tourism efforts and boosting local economies throughout the state,” said Mrs. Beshear. “These federal funds help communities get trail projects off the ground so they can bring in tourism dollars and provide areas for their citizens to be active and live healthier lifestyles.”

Each project title, applicant and grant amount announced today are listed below.

Muhlenberg County Rail Trail, Muhlenberg County Fiscal Court, $80,000
The grant will enhance an existing six miles of trail by widening the path from 6 feet to 10 feet, to accommodate more walkers, cyclists and skaters. The enhancement will also offer easier trail access to handicapped individuals. Other improvements will include new lighting, bridge repairs and adding landscaping and signage to both the Central City and Greenville entrances.  

"I am proud to represent progressive counties and their leaders who are always looking to improve the quality of life and opportunities for their citizens,” said Rep. Brent Yonts.  “I congratulate Hopkins and Muhlenberg counties and thank the First Lady and Governor for these grants."

Dawson Springs Park to Park, City of Dawson Springs, $52,670
Funding for this project will go toward the construction of a trailhead parking area along the Dawson Springs Park to Park trail.  Additionally, a .25 mile portion of the trail north of the City Park baseball field will be resurfaced to enhance safety and ease of traveling while using the route.   

“The city of Dawson Springs is very grateful for the Park to Park Trail grant,” said Dawson Springs Mayor Jenny Sewell.  “This trail project will be a vehicle to contribute to the good health of our citizens and visitors alike.”

Nortonville Recreational Trails Project, City of Nortonville, $25,000
Grant funding for this project allows the city to construct more than 3,000 feet of asphalt trail that is 8 feet in width.  The new construction will start at High Street and extend around Nortonville Lake along Lake Drive.  The grant will also fund new trailside facilities such as signage, garbage cans and benches for walkers and cyclists to utilize.   

“I am glad that I was able to help obtain funding to further these recreational trail projects,” said Sen. Joey Pendleton.  “They will continue to enhance the tourism opportunities as well as serve the residents through numerous health and recreational benefits. I appreciate the First Lady ‘s interest and leadership in promoting recreational tourism in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.”

“These projects will make the communities more attractive to the traveling public as well as enhance economic growth and development in the area,” said Sen. Jerry Rhoads.  “These recreational facilities – the Muhlenberg County Rail Trail, Dawson Springs Park to Park and the Nortonville Recreational Trails Project – will also improve the quality of life for the citizens. I am pleased that I was able to assist in getting funding to move these projects forward. I appreciate the First Lady’s involvement and promotion of recreational tourism throughout Kentucky.”

The RTP is funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration.  Kentucky’s RTP grants are administered by the Department for Local Government and require that applicants match the amount of funds requested. The grants may be used to provide assistance for acquisition of easements; development and/or maintenance of recreational trails; and trailhead facilities for both motorized and non-motorized use. 

In August, Gov. Steve Beshear pledged his support for the RTP by signing a letter to U.S. Transportation Sec. Ray LaHood reaffirming Kentucky’s commitment to utilize RTP funds.

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