The Texas Construction News staff writer
AUSTIN — The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission has awarded more than $6.17 million to fund 21 recreational trail construction and maintenance projects across the state, boosting the state’s outdoor recreation infrastructure.
Approved during the commission’s May meeting, the grant package combines federal off-highway vehicle (OHV) excise funds, $1.59 million from the state’s Sporting Goods Sales Tax, and a dedicated $900,000 allocation specifically for state park trail improvements. The Sporting Goods Sales Tax has been a crucial funding mechanism for Texas parks since voters overwhelmingly approved a constitutional amendment dedicating the revenue to outdoor spaces.
Some of the key municipal and county projects funded include:
- Crockett County: A $499,999 grant to the Texas Motorized Trails Coalition to renovate a 10-mile motorized trail and improve essential infrastructure at the Escondido Draw Recreation Area.
- Kendall County: A $300,000 grant to the City of Boerne to construct a 120-foot steel bridge. The new span will replace an aging and deteriorating timber structure on the popular Old No. 9 Trail.
- McLennan County: A $390,400 grant to the Waco Motorcycle Club for extensive renovations to a 10-mile trail. The upgrades will include new retaining walls, lighting, and security fencing to improve rider safety and trail longevity.
