Recreational Trails Program approves $2.5M funding for trail projects

The Utah Outdoor Recreation Grant Advisory Committee convened on April 30, 2025, to discuss key funding initiatives and updates related to outdoor recreation in the state. The meeting, which began with technical difficulties in audio and video, quickly transitioned to important agenda items, including the approval of minutes from a previous meeting and the review of Recreational Trails Program (RTP) projects.

Evan Veitch, the minister of the Recreational Trails Program, reported that 42 non-motorized and 5 motorized applications were submitted, totaling over $2.5 million in awarded projects from a competitive pool of $5 million. The committee approved these projects, although some were funded at reduced amounts due to high demand. The approval was met with unanimous support from committee members.

The meeting also welcomed new members, including Jordan Washburn from RE Bikes, who expressed his enthusiasm for contributing to the committee, and Noemi Molina, the new main contact administrator for the Utah Recreation Grant. Updates were provided on recent events, including a successful statewide trail conference that attracted nearly 300 participants, highlighting the growing interest in outdoor recreation.

Additionally, the committee discussed new grant programs stemming from recent legislative changes, including an increase in the statewide transient room tax aimed at supporting rural communities with outdoor recreation-related expenses. This new funding is expected to provide between $7 to $8 million for search and rescue, emergency services, and infrastructure improvements in rural areas.

The meeting concluded with a review of 210 applications for the current grant cycle, marking a record number of submissions. The committee plans to continue its discussions and evaluations throughout the day, focusing on the diverse range of projects aimed at enhancing Utah's outdoor recreation landscape.