Wellmark grant to restore and build Iowa River Trail

By Rachel on October 1, 2015 in Blog

The Wellmark Foundation approved a $75,000 match grant to TRAILS Inc. to help build and renovate the Iowa River Trail. Local support and contributions equal to the amount of the grant will be needed by December 15 in order to receive the grant.

The Wellmark Foundation selected the Iowa River Trail project as one of only 17 that were approved.

In awarding the match grant, Stephanie Perry, The Wellmark Foundation manager said, “We applaud TRAILS, Inc. for launching the Iowa River Trail project. The trail will make it easier and safer for everyone to become more physically active through access to new hard surface recreational trail and its connection to the already existing trails.”

The 34-mile Iowa River Trail will connect Marshalltown, Albion, Liscomb, Union, Gifford, Eldora and Steamboat Rock. The former rail corridor has been secured, and local volunteers and agencies are now seeking public grants and private contributions to begin constructing the trail surface and re-fitting bridges for safe use by cyclists, hikers and more. The trail will provide ample opportunities to locals and visitors alike for recreation and exploration throughout the year.

Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation (INHF) is a major partner in the Iowa River Trail project along with TRAILS, Inc., Hardin County, Hardin County Trails Board, and the City of Marshalltown.

“We need the continual support from individuals and families, businesses and organizations to make the project become a reality,” said Terry Briggs of TRAILS Inc. “Now is the time to donate and pledge your support. This segment of the trail development will make it easier and safer for everyone to become more physically active through access to a new hard-surfaced recreational trail and its connection to already existing trails.”

Gifts can be directed to the Iowa River Trail project through Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation, and online giving is available at the INHF website.

###

INHF is a statewide nonprofit conservation group that works with private landowners and other partners to protect Iowa's land, water and wildlife. Since its founding in 1979, INHF has helped protect nearly 150,000 acres of Iowa's wild places in 95 Iowa counties.