Board approves $500,000 SNC grant application for Mariposa Hillside Trails Phase 1

The Mariposa County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously Wednesday to authorize staff to submit a $500,000 grant application to the Sierra Nevada Conservancy for the Mariposa Hillside Trails Phase 1 project.

Hannah Harrison, community design and development planner, told the board the first phase would construct approximately 3.9 miles of multiuse trail, about 30% of the planned 12.4-mile network. She said the phase will connect the county park with the Mariposa Creek Parkway multiuse trail, expand recreational access adjacent to downtown, and create shaded fuel breaks and fire-access routes to support vegetation management.

"This first phase will build approximately 3.9 miles or about 30% of the full 12.4 mile trail system," Harrison said, adding that the stewardship guidebook adopted by the board in November 2025 provides recommendations for long-term monitoring and maintenance.

Harrison told the board there would be no county match required for the Sierra Nevada Conservancy grant and that if an award is offered it would return to the board before any funds are accepted. Multiple supervisors expressed support during the discussion, noting the Hillside Trails project as complementary to the Creek Parkway efforts and local recreation and economic diversification goals.

Supervisor comments emphasized community benefits including improved recreation and potential off-season visitation. The motion to authorize submittal was moved and seconded and carried by unanimous voice vote.

Next steps: Planning staff will finalize and submit the application; any award will be brought back to the board for formal acceptance and any legal/contract review.

Sources: Hannah Harrison (Community Design & Development Planner); Mariposa County Board vote.