Next Level Trails Program Awards $30M in Grants

(stock image courtesy: Pixabay/Micky Estes)

Eighteen communities and nonprofit organizations will receive a combined $29.6 million for 70 miles of new trail development as a part of the Next Level Trails program. The second round of grants include 10 regional and eight local projects.

Along with the 17 projects announced as part of the first round in 2019, the program has awarded $54.3 million in funding for more than 112 miles of trail throughout Indiana. The DNR received second-round applications for 62 projects in 36 counties, requesting a total of more than $93 million for more than 158 proposed miles of hiking, biking and riding trails.

“Trails have been an important resource for Hoosiers’ physical and mental well-being throughout the pandemic,” said Governor Eric Holcomb. “These projects are a transformational investment in quality of life for communities across our state and a valuable tool for economic and tourism development. We are creating important connections that take us one step closer to becoming the most trail-friendly state in the country.”

According to Holcomb’s office, Next Level Trails is the largest infusion of trails funding in state history. The $90 million grant program includes two components: a $70 million fund for regional projects and a $20 million fund for local projects. The program’s second round included $25 million for regional projects and $5 million for local projects.

“Hoosiers visited trails and parks this past year in unprecedented numbers,” said Indiana Department of Natural Resources Director Dan Bortner. “Demand for trails has never been higher, and we are excited to partner with local governments and non-profits to build these important community assets.”

Applications for the program’s third round will start in November and need to be submitted by December 1.

You can connect to the list of awards, project descriptions, and a map by clicking here.