County projected to receive $161k for trail projects
The Kootenai Falls swinging bridge received a much-needed makeover in 2019. First built in the 1930s to help fight forest fires, the bridge has since become a major tourist attraction in Lincoln County. The U.S. Forest Service and Kootenai National Forest oversaw the project. (File photo)
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking public comment related to the environmental impacts of the proposed list of funding awards for the 2024 Trail Stewardship Program grant cycle.
This year the program is recommending $2 million in grant funds to 36 projects across the state.
Two came from Lincoln County. The County Commissioners are seeking money to expand facilities at the Kootenai Falls Trailhead, including construction of bathrooms and a trailhead where the new parking lot leads to the trail. It is line to receive $62,479.
The Eureka Youth Sports League sought money for a new trail extension and trail paving associated with the Eureka Youth Sports Park. It is line to receive $98,470.
In total, FWP received 40 applications requesting $2.33 million in funding. Applications were submitted by federal and state agencies, towns, cities, counties, recreational clubs and nonprofit organizations.
Eligible projects include development and rehabilitation work on urban, rural, and backcountry trails; construction of new trails and facilities; and snowmobile and cross-country ski trail maintenance and grooming operations.
The 2024 application process was highly competitive with many strong projects proposed. FWP staff conducted an internal review and scoring of applications. In addition, State Trails Advisory Committee (STAC) members reviewed applications and met March 5 and 6 in Great Falls to provide feedback on projects and make recommendations to FWP for distribution of the funds.
A list of the proposed grant recipients is available at: fwp.mt.gov/aboutfwp/grant-programs/trail-stewardship/public-comment. Some projects are proposed to receive full funding, while others are proposed to receive partial awards.
Comments will be accepted in writing to P.O. Box 200701 Helena, MT 59620-0701, and by email to: TSPGrants@mt.gov.
Comments will be accepted until April 3, at 5 p.m.