The funds are being used to create new trails as well as restore and improve existing trails, for hikers and other trail users.
Local trails are an important part of the state's outdoor recreational resources.
They provide Rhode Islanders and visitors with the opportunity to experience the beauty and serenity of the state's woodlands and diverse natural areas. We are pleased that the federal government has made funds available to Rhode Island for trail creation and improvement. Projects include establishing a new 3,300-foot trail in Johnston, restoring an embankment at the Arkwright Riverwalk in Hope, installing a footbridge and stairs with guardrails at Old Mountain Field in South Kingstown, and making improvements to Cliff Walk in Newport. Rhode Islanders have a consistently higher participation rate in these activities than the national participation rate according to the survey. A trails inventory published in the same guide plan showed that the state had 255 miles of hiking trails and 186 miles of horse trails.