Gov. Holden signs law to help trails move forward

The law protects property owners from civil liability when their land adjoins state, city or county-managed trails, thus reducing what Ted Curtis, executive director of Trailnet Inc., calls "the fear factor."

He called it a "layer of protection" for landowners who might otherwise object to the development of trails so near their property.

The law expands liability protection that previously was given only to landowners adjoining the Katy Trail State Park and trails in St. Louis and Greene County. The protection does not apply, however, if the trespasser's injury was caused by an unlawful or intentional act of the landowner.

Holden, who signed the bills on a Mississippi River bridge that has been converted to a walking and biking trail, said Missourians rate trails as the most popular form of recreation in their communities.