County of Monroe, Michigan

Amount Appropriated?

$5.6M

FFID tracks stages 1–2 — stages 3–5 vary by agency, assistance type, and earmark structure.

Project Description

The project will include the complete reconstruction of the existing 4.2 mile trail, correction and prevention of negative vegetative impact to the trail surface, repair of existing bridge and drainage structures, and the addition of key trail and site amenities including shelters, benches, wayfinding signage, and educational signage for this historical area, incorporating key aspects from the National Battlefield Park and International Wildlife Refuge information. Funding will contribute toward improving the physical and psychological health of residents and visitors with increased opportunity to recreate in the area and provide access to the natural assets of the community. Additionally, use of the trail system is free to all citizens and connects them to educational and cultural amenities offered by the federal government at the River Raisin National Battlefield Park and local County historical sites and facilities. Increasing access to outdoor recreation directly contributes to advances in quality of life opportunities for citizens and the trail connects users to retail services in the City of Monroe providing economic vitality of the community. \n\nThe funding will support in part the economic recovery and sustainability of the tourism industry in southeast Michigan by creating a more recognizable destination for visitors to experience the trail and connect via the trail to and from the State Park on Lake Erie. Of note, no land acquisition is required for this project and applies the common sense idea of supporting and maintaining existing assets we have as a community first before creating new taxpayer burdens. Finally, rehabilitating the trail will make an investment in this community asset that is readily accessible to adjacent neighborhoods and community users in parts that are economically challenged. Citizens of all abilities have access to use the trail.