#United States #Washington D.C. #Great American Rail-Trail #Rails to Trails #RTC

Progress on the Great American Rail-Trail

In a recent announcement, Rails to Trails Conservancy (RTC) outlined substantial progress made in 2024 towards the completion of the Great American Rail-Trail, an ambitious 3,700-mile cross-country trail designed for cyclists and pedestrians. Celebrating five years since the trail's vision was launched, RTC highlighted not only the completion status but also the enthusiasm and support for this transformative project.

The Great American Rail-Trail, which stretches across 12 states from Washington, D.C. to Washington State, has reached a 55 percent completion rate, with 2,068.6 miles now finished. This landmark project aims to create a fully bikeable and multi-use trail entirely separated from vehicle traffic, enhancing outdoor recreation and offering new economic opportunities for communities along the route.

Financial Support and Community Engagement

The RTC's 2024 updates reveal that over $35 million in new public and private funding has been invested in the trail, elevating total investments to more than $161 million since the project's inception. This funding surge is crucial for infrastructure development and public engagement, illustrating a strong communal desire for trail completion.

Kevin Belle, RTC’s project manager, noted the remarkable enthusiasm generated since the trail's announcement in 2019. Residents from both urban and rural areas recognize the benefits this trail brings, including enhanced quality of life, outdoor recreational spaces, and economic development opportunities. As communities rally together to improve their local trail segments, they contribute to the magical connectivity of the entire route.

Highlights from this year's developments include:

• - New Miles Added: Nearly 125 miles have been incorporated into the trail since 2019, with 12 miles completed this year across states such as Iowa, Indiana, Montana, Nebraska, Washington, and Ohio. Landmark additions include the Tarkio Flats Trail in Mineral County, Montana.
• - Vital Connections Established: Significant milestones were reached, like the completion of Great American Gap #45, linking with the Raccoon River Valley Trail, creating nearly 60 continuous trail miles.
• - Federal Support Maximized: Major allocations from the Transportation Alternative Program, the largest federal source for trails, walking, and biking projects, have financed improvements like the Iowa River's Edge Trail construction, Kokosing Gap Trail resurfacing in Ohio, and enhancements along the CO Canal in Maryland. Furthermore, targeted federal grants have supported the Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe in Washington, progressing critical construction activities.

Virtual Celebration of Achievements

On December 17, a virtual event showcased the trail's five years of progress. Featuring discussions and key updates, attendees learned how the Great American Rail-Trail will directly benefit 50 million people residing within close proximity of the trail while attracting millions more visitors seeking to explore the natural landscape the trail traverses.

Guided by their mission to connect communities through trails, the Rails to Trails Conservancy continually works to realize the broader vision of a trail network that emphasizes safety, accessibility, and public engagement. As the organization pushes forward, it remains committed to making trails available for all, transforming public spaces into vibrant locations for outdoor activity and celebration.

Looking Forward

With ongoing dedication from RTC and vibrant community participation, the future of the Great American Rail-Trail looks promising. For those interested in following the journey, updates, and further engagement opportunities, you can visit GreatAmericanRailTrail.org or connect with the project on social media under #GRTAmerican. The continued collaboration and investment signal exciting times ahead for this innovative and integral part of America’s landscape.

Join the Movement: Stay connected with Rails to Trails Conservancy at railstotrails.org and engage in the movement towards a healthier, more active society connected by trails.