Trail development assistance available

Trail development assistance available

Parks & Trails New York, a statewide parks and trails advocacy organization, is offering trail development assistance to communities in 2008 through its Healthy Trails, Healthy People program. Healthy Trails, Healthy People is a statewide effort to improve the health of all New Yorkers, by helping citizens in communities across the state become more physically active through the development of local multi-use trails.

Through its Healthy Trails, Healthy People program, funded in part by the Healthy Heart Program of the New York State Department of Health, Parks & Trails New York helps communities form trails advocacy groups, launch new trail projects or get a stalled project moving. Parks & Trails New York staff provide technical and planning assistance, present workshops and offer organizational support. Workshops highlight the multiple benefits of trails as well as provide an opportunity for residents to explore trail development opportunities within their own communities.

"Easily accessible, close to home, multi-use trails are a proven and significant way in which communities can provide no or low cost opportunities for almost everyone to increase their level of daily activity and become more involved in their community. Our goal is to work with communities to build the vision, constituencies and local support that are so critical to the long-term success of trail projects," Parks & Trails New York Executive Director Robin Dropkin said.

To apply, visit the Parks & Trails New York website at www.ptny.org or contact Parks & Trails New York at 518-434-1583 or ptny@ptny.org to obtain an application. Applications are being accepted until January 11, 2008. Level of community interest, partnership possibilities and opportunities to increase physical activity levels will be considered in selection. Potential applicants are encouraged to contact Parks & Trails New York to discuss their project before the submission deadline.