Measure includes 13 projects in Kent and Ottawa counties
LANSING, Mich. — Sen. Mark Huizenga’s legislation to support $84.6 million in park and trail developments and acquisitions across Michigan was signed on Tuesday by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
“This outdoor recreation funding is an example of the great things that can be done when we work together to build a better Michigan,” said Huizenga, R-Walker. “We are putting constitutionally restricted funding to positive use to improve access to our great outdoors for families to enjoy, encourage active lifestyles, and make our region and state more attractive for talent and jobs.
“In West Michigan, local communities will receive over $4 million in trust fund grants to help make over $14.4 million in total improvements to public outdoor spaces that enhance our quality of life.”
The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund is supported by interest earned on funds generated from the development of state-owned mineral rights. Since its inception in 1976, the NRTF has been used to fund 2,715 projects totaling $1.3 billion.
Senate Bill 1028, now Public Act 151 of 2022, authorizes the NRTF to use $45.6 million in restricted funds to support 22 acquisition projects and 95 development projects. Matching funds of $39 million would bring the total investment to $84.6 million.
Kent County projects include a total of $900,000 in grants toward the $3.96 million development of 4,464 feet of the nonmotorized Rivers Edge Trail from Ann Street to Leonard Street in Grand Rapids with river frontage along the east bank of the Grand River. The three segments include street underpasses, a universally accessible 12-foot wide shared-use trail, river access, LED lighting, seating and signage. Ultimately, the trail will connect downtown Grand Rapids to the Fred Meijer White Pine Trail State Park.
Other grants in the bill for trail projects in Kent and Ottawa counties include:
SB 1028 also features NRTF grants for five park improvements in Kent and Ottawa counties, including:
Kent County has two land acquisition projects included in the bill, including: