To: Dr. Beverly Brown, Community & Economic Development Committee Chairperson
From: Derek Bradshaw, Director
title
RE: Approval of Grant Agreement with Mott Foundation for Non-Motorized Trails Analysis
recommendation
BOARD ACTION REQUESTED:
The Genesee County Metropolitan Planning Commission (GCMPC) is recommending the Board of Commissioners accept the Trails Analysis Grant and the attached budget adjustment.
BACKGROUND:
Genesee County is making significant strides in the development of a premier non-motorized network and communities are experiencing first-hand economic, health, and social benefits. According to a 2021 County Health Rankings report, Genesee County ranks 80 out of 83 counties for overall health outcomes. To improve our ranking, we need to expand upon our efforts to provide meaningful places to walk, cycle, or jog that are attractive, safe and accessible to all ages and income levels. By the year 2025, over 19 miles of non-motorized trails will be constructed since the development of Genesee County's regional trail plan in 2014. Although regional connections throughout the County have been completed there remain key non-motorized gaps between our communities.
DISCUSSION:
This past November, GCMPC staff applied to the Mott Foundation for a non-motorized trails analysis grant that will help to strengthen Genesee County's 2025 Master Plan update. GCMPC is proposing to organize a trails symposium that'll bring together residents, trail advocacy groups, community officials, the business leaders, and health experts to name a few. One anticipated outcome from this event will be not only a renewed list of priority trail connections but a funding strategy and timeline that identifies grant competitiveness of projects to secure funding. Along with the trails symposium there will include an education and outreach campaign that looks to engage populations and community groups around the County whose thoughts are crucial to a well-rounded plan. Staf...
Click here for full text