Governor Quinn Announces $200,000 Investment to Develop Bicycle Path in Glen Carbon

GLEN CARBON - Governor Pat Quinn today announced an investment of $200,000 to help develop a bicycle path in Glen Carbon. The matching grant is part of a $1 million investment to develop or improve 42 miles of bicycle trails in Illinois. Today's announcement is part of Governor Quinn's commitment to green transportation and healthy lifestyles in Illinois.

"This investment will provide more opportunities for people to get out, get healthy and enjoy what Glen Carbon has to offer," Governor Quinn said. "Bicycling is an ideal activity for young and old, and this path will make biking safer and more convenient."

Madison County Transit will receive $200,000 to renovate an eight-mile segment of the Heritage Bikeway in Glen Carbon. The upgraded trail segment begins at the Nickel Plate Trail on the west and ends at Silver Creek on the east.

Funds for the Bicycle Path Grant Program, administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR), are for the acquisition of land or development of facilities for bicycle paths. The Bicycle Path Grant Program was approved by the Illinois General Assembly in 1989 and funding comes from a percentage of motor vehicle title fees. The program provides up to 50 percent of the total approved project cost.

"Illinois' growing system of multi-use trails provides Illinois children and families with the perfect opportunity to get outside and connect with nature," DNR Director Marc Miller said. "As these new trails are completed, they will provide an economic boost because communities that offer diverse recreational opportunities become more attractive to new families and businesses."

A total of 21 applications were initially received, representing a combined request of $2.7 million. Combined with previous years' funding, DNR has awarded grants that helped develop approximately 982 miles of local government bicycle trails in Illinois since 1990.

"Besides creating important construction jobs for area business, this trail improves safety, creates new recreational opportunities and encourages healthy lifestyles," State Senator William Haine (D-Alton) said.