Bill will provide more than $1 million for natural resource expansion project in Monroe County
LANSING—State Sen. Randy Richardville today announced that Monroe County will receive $1.19 million for a natural resource improvement project.
Senate Bill 322, approved by the state Senate Thursday, designates $48.9 million in grant money to fund 81 parks and recreation projects across the state through the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund.
“The grant will provide more recreational space for residents in the area who like spending time outdoors,” said Richardville, R-Monroe. “It will be a great addition to Monroe’s park system.”
The money will be used to fund the first phase of a project to purchase 128 acres of open space for the city of Monroe and a portion of Frenchtown Township. The project will also receive $398,000 in local and matching funds.
The Natural Resources Trust Fund provides financial assistance to local governments and the Department of Natural Resources to purchase land or rights in land for public recreation or protection of land because of its environmental importance or its scenic beauty. It also assists in the appropriate development of land for public outdoor recreation.
“Michigan is fortunate to have tremendous natural resources,” Richardville said. “The trust fund helps make important improvements to our state parks and recreational areas so that residents can continue to experience and enjoy these areas.”
The money for the trust fund is generated from oil and mineral rights and is not part of the General Fund.
The measure will now go to the House for consideration.
Posted: Monday, March 16, 2009
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