Huntingdon County Trails Maintenance and Safety Fund
Trails are a critical part of outdoor recreation product in Huntingdon County, offering unparalleled experiences for hikers, runners, cyclists, and paddlers alike. As custodians of these vital pathways, we understand the ongoing challenges and costs associated with maintaining them and ensuring critical emergency readiness for all users.
To support your efforts, the Huntingdon County Visitors Bureau is proud to announce the $12,500 Trails Maintenance and Safety Fund. This fund aims to assist on-profit trail management organizations, municipal governments, and local first responder agencies (e.g., volunteer fire, ambulance, and specialized rescue teams) responsible for trails on public lands within Huntingdon County.
The Fund is designed to assist projects that ensure the long-term sustainability and safety of existing trails. Priority is given to projects in one of two categories:
A. Trail Maintenance & Enhancement: Projects that address wear, tear, and long-term upkeep.
— Erosion control, drainage improvements, and surface material replacement.
— Repair or replacement of existing bridges, boardwalks, and railings.
— General upkeep of signage and wayfinding elements.
B. Trail Safety & Emergency Access: Projects that enhance the safety and emergency response capabilities related to trails.
— Widening or clearing trails/access points to accommodate emergency vehicles and equipment.
— Acquisition of specialized first responder equipment, such as litter wheels, technical rescue gear, or specialized vehicles, used solely for accident victim extraction from county trails.
— Installation or upgrade of emergency locator signage (e.g., marking systems for rescue crews).
Funded primarily through the county's hotel tax revenues, this initiative requires that grants be matched at least 25% by recipients. This match can be fulfilled through a variety of contributions, including volunteer hours or professional services, thereby leveraging resources effectively and creatively.
We invite all eligible organizations and governmental entities to partner with us in preserving and enhancing our cherished trails network. Together, we can ensure that our trails continue to attract visitors, support local businesses, and provide residents with unparalleled recreational opportunities.