LANSING, Mich. — Sen. Kevin Daley on Thursday supported legislation to approve a $27.3 million Natural Resources Trust Fund (NRTF) investment into park and trail developments and public land acquisitions across Michigan, including $900,000 for three projects in the Genesee and Saginaw counties.
“Investments into our parks and natural resources are investments that enhance the quality of life of Michigan residents for generations,” said Daley, R-Lum. “The Natural Resource Trust Fund has proven to be a wonderful source of funding to support our local parks and recreation areas without additional taxes.”
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.
The bill will provide $300,000 for repairs and renovations to the historic 1930s pedestrian bridge across the Flint River at Richfield County Park in Genesee County. The $406,000 project includes $106,000 in local matching funds.
Another $300,000 would go to support development along the Cass River Trail portion of the Iron Belle Trail in Saginaw County. The $515,400 project, which includes $215,400 in local matching funds, will help to create a trail loop with amenities connecting downtown Bridgeport and residential neighborhood communities.
The legislation would also provide $300,000 for renovations to 11 miles of the Saginaw Valley Rail Trail, connecting the village of St. Charles to Saginaw Charter Township through Saginaw and Thomas townships. The $500,000 project includes $200,000 in local matching funds and is a part of the full Great Lakes Bay Regional Trail, which connects the tri-cities of Bay City, Saginaw and Midland and is the official connector of the Iron Belle Trail.
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