RECREATIONAL TRAILS
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources will administer the $25 million Clean Ohio Trail Fund (COTF) over the next four years to acquire property for land acquisition and the construction of recreational trails. Approximately $6.25 million will be available in each year.
Priority will be given to projects that:
- Are in synchronization with the statewide trails plan;
- Complete regional trail systems and links to the statewide trail system;
- Link population centers with outdoor recreation areas and facilities;
- Involve the purchase of rail lines linked to the statewide trails plan;
- Preserve natural corridors;
- Provide links in urban areas to support commuter access and provide economic benefit; and
- Combine funds from various state and/or local agencies.
 Political subdivisions and nonprofit organizations are eligible to receive grants from the new COTF. The COTF will provide up to 75 percent of the project costs for successful applicants. Items of value, such as in-kind contributions and donations may be considered as contributing toward the local match.
The director of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources will select eligible projects, advised by the nine-member Clean Ohio Trail Fund Advisory Board comprised of representatives of local governments, statewide nonprofit organizations dedicated to the creation of recreational trails, developers, planners, and environmental interests.
The Clean Ohio Trails Fund application and guidelines document is available online. The next funding cycle deadline is February 1, 2006. This is the same deadline as the existing Recreational Trails Program that ODNR currently administers.
For information contact:
Division of Real Estate and Land Management
2045 Morse Road, C-4
Columbus, OH 43224-1386
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