Governor Quinn Announces $616,000 for Multi-Use Trail Development in Peoria and Fulton Counties

WEST PEORIA - Governor Pat Quinn today announced an investment of $616,000 in federal funds to develop the Hanna City Trail in Peoria and Fulton Counties. The funds from the federal Recreational Trails Program are designed to increase the use of recreational trails. Today's announcement is part of Governor Quinn's commitment to promoting outdoor activity as a way to stay healthy and enjoy what Illinois has to offer.

"Peoria and Fulton Counties have some beautiful natural areas, and these federal funds will help more people enjoy them on foot or bicycle," Governor Quinn said.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) administers the Recreational Trails Program grants in Illinois.

"Improving our infrastructure for recreation on public lands is an important step as we work to connect more people with nature and the outdoors," IDNR Director Marc Miller said. "These grants will help communities and government agencies do a better job of making public spaces available to all."

Peoria and Fulton Counties will use the $616,000 federal grant to acquire a 24.7-mile abandoned railroad corridor from West Peoria to five miles west of Farmington. The corridor will be developed into a bicycle and hiking trail. The total project cost is estimated to be $770,000.

"I'm glad to see this investment in a bicycle trail that will benefit smaller communities like Hanna City and Farmington, in addition to Peoria," State Senator Dave Koehler (D-Peoria) said. "Bike trails encourage people to exercise, spend time outdoors and explore the countryside around them."