Subject:
Title
A Resolution in Support of Recreational Trails Program Grant Application for Improvements to the Washington and Old Dominion Railroad Regional Park
Body
EXPLANATION AND SUMMARY:
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation administers an annual grant application for funds to rehabilitate or build new trails. From the 2019 Recreational Trails Program Manual:
"The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) is an 80-20, matching reimbursement program established for the purposes of providing and maintaining recreational trails. It is funded through the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), which establishes a program for allocating funds to the States for recreational trails. The agency responsible for administering the program in Virginia is the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR).
The RTP Application deadline is August 2, 2019. All proposals are reviewed and scored by the Virginia Recreational Trails Program Advisory Committee. Applications that include a resolution of support from the governing body can earn 6-7 points of a maximum total 100 points possible. Funding may be provided to city governments, county governments or other government entities. Non-profits when partnered with a governmental body are also eligible to compete for funding."
Staff plans on using the funds to remove invasive species along the trail and replant native species, installing lighting along the trail to improve safety and accessibility, and improving the crosswalks at intersections at Maple Avenue, Church Street, Park Street, and Ayr Hill Avenue. We will be able to match funds through funding from the Capital Improvement Plan.
Departmental Recommendation: Staff supports the resolution.
Finance Recommendation: Recommend approval
Purchasing Recommendation: N/A
Town Attorney Recommendation: The Town Council may approve the proposed grant application resolution in its discretion.
Town Manager's Recommendation: I recommend the Town Council a...
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