State Capitol Steps Spill Over with Support for Rock Island Trail

Headlines are quick hits from media outlets from Missouri and around the world. Follow the headline link for the full story. The source of this headline says:

Public officials, including mayors from Stover, Versailles, Owensville and Gerald and administrators and aldermen from Windsor, Pleasant Hill, Belle and Union, urged the trail would bring value to their towns both in terms of tourism and revenue—putting them on the map as hubs that connect to the famed Katy Trail. Business owners and residents from towns along the route, including the owners of Chilhowee Corner Store, Leeton General Store and Bluebird Outdoor Adventures in Cole Camp, spoke about the opportunities the trail would bring.

"We've seen firsthand the power of rail-trails in Missouri—the Katy Trail is beloved and generates millions in annual revenue for the state," said Liz Thorstensen, vice president of trail development at Rails-to-Trails Conservancy. "The Rock Island Trail has the potential to amplify those benefits, connecting 23 communities and creating new tourism and economic development opportunities for thousands of Missourians. This is a once-in-history chance to build something truly iconic."

The Department of Natural Resources is considering whether or not to accept Ameren's donation of the 144-mile stretch of the former Rock Island rail line, which has been inoperable since the 1980s. The state is currently collecting public comments about the project and will make a decision by February of 2018.

Link: 

State Capitol Steps Spill Over with Support for Rock Island Trail

MoBikeFed comment: Remember to complete the Missouri State Parks Survey in support of the trail--and make sure all of your family members and friends have completed the survey as well.

The Survey is open until August 31st, 2017, and a brief comment saying that you support the trail is all that is needed.

Complete the survey here:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/YRQX56F