LANSING, Mich. — Sen. Ruth Johnson on Thursday supported a Natural Resources Trust Fund (NRTF) bill to invest over $27 million in park and trail developments and public land acquisitions across Michigan, including two projects in the 24th Senate District.
“The Natural Resources Trust Fund continues to help expand and enhance outdoor recreational opportunities for all Michigan families and tourists to enjoy,” said Johnson, R-Holly. “Two projects in Macomb County will set aside additional land for recreation along the Clinton River and improve access to the river for those with mobility challenges. Both projects are wonderful examples of how these constitutionally restricted funds help make our state an even better place to live, work and raise a family.”
The NRTF is supported by interest earned on funds generated from the development of state-owned mineral rights. Since its inception in 1976, the NRTF has been used to fund 2,760 projects totaling $1.3 billion.
Senate Bill 817 would authorize the NRTF to release $27.3 million in restricted funds to support 35 development projects and 18 land acquisitions across the state. Local matching funds of $34.2 million would bring the total investment to $61.5 million.
Under the bill, Shelby Township would receive a $164,500 grant to support the development of a barrier-free recreational area along the Clinton River Water Trail. This project would complement the accessible kayak launch at River Bends Park, replacing a prior unsafe launch area.
Macomb Township would also receive $742,500 toward a $1,060,800 acquisition of five parcels adjacent to the north branch of the Clinton River for developing hiking and biking paths, kayak launches, and scenic walkways, particularly those which would move forward the Macomb County North Branch Greenway efforts.
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