City of Lawrenceburg Selected to Receive $240,000 Grant Award for Rails-to-Trails Project
Funds Will Provide for Construction of New Pedestrian and Cyclist Trail
FRANKFORT, Ky. (October 24, 2019) – The Department for Local Government (DLG) today announced that the YKK to Wild Turkey Rails to Trails project has been selected for funding under the Recreational Trails Program (RTP). Upon federal approval, the City of Lawrenceburg will receive $240,000 for the conversion of a disused rail bed to be developed for use by pedestrians and cyclists.
“We are excited today to announce $240,000 in RTP grant funding for the City of Lawrenceburg,” said Gov. Bevin. “Our Department for Local Government works closely with local officials to address priority projects that will most positively impact their communities. This significant investment will enable vital recreational improvements to be made.”
The proposed trail will begin at the YKK manufacturing company, where the company has agreed to provide land for a parking area, and continue for approximately two miles, ending at the Wild Turkey distillery, where parking will be available at the City of Lawrenceburg’s water treatment plant.
The project will include the removal of the existing railroad ties and the installation of four inches of gravel to create a trail that is 8 to 10 feet wide. Additionally, small trees will be cleared and drainage ditches will be graded. In the middle of the trail there is a bridge – 800 feet long and 100 feet tall – that will require the installation of decking and handrails. The Rail-To-Trail project will feature signs posted at the trailheads informing visitors of notable topographic, geologic, and safety information.
“Upon completion, the YKK to Wild Turkey Rail-to-Trail project will be an important part of the Bourbon Trail and a significant recreational opportunity for the area,” said DLG Commissioner Sandra Dunahoo. “I’m very happy that the DLG and local officials were able to partner together to develop this recreational trail.”
"I appreciate the Governor's support for this rail-to-trail project and look forward to working with local officials to take advantage of every opportunity to make it possible," Rep. James Tipton added.
"Trail projects like this provide a boost to economic development in the area and encourage healthy habits for the residents of Anderson County and beyond," said Congressman Barr. "I applaud Governor Bevin and DLG for recognizing the value of this project."
Recreational Trails Program
The Recreational Trails Program is funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). The funds are administered by the Department for Local Government, an arm of the Office of the Governor dedicated to supporting local officials and communities, to selected grant applicants for the creation and development of recreational trails. For more information, go to dlg.ky.gov.
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