Altoona Times

Jan. 17, 2024 - Rep. Jesse Topper (R-Bedford/Fulton) and Sen. Patrick Stefano (R-Bedford/Fayette/Somerset/Westmoreland) have announced grant funding through the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) to improve recreational trails in Bedford County.

"Bedford County is home to outdoor recreational opportunities that will be more accessible through an improved trail system," said Rep. Topper. "As ecotourism continues to grow, this will bring additional tourism dollars to our area."

The $84,651 grant will be allocated to the Bedford County Development Association to complete a master trail connectivity study. This funding comes from the Greenways, Trails, and Recreation Program, which supports projects involving the development, rehabilitation, and improvement of public parks, recreation areas, greenways, trails, and river conservation.

Sen. Stefano emphasized the multiple benefits of enhancing the trail system, stating, "Not only do our local trails provide fun opportunities for families in the area to be more active and share healthy habits with their children, but they also attract visitors from other parts of Pennsylvania and even other states who patronize our businesses. I look forward to sharing the wonder around us and enjoying the economic benefit that comes from doing so."

The Commonwealth Financing Authority, an independent agency of the Department of Community and Economic Development, oversees state investment in projects that support and enhance Pennsylvania's economic growth.

This grant funding will not only improve the trail system in Bedford County but also contribute to the growth of ecotourism in the area. With the completion of the master trail connectivity study, outdoor recreational opportunities will become more accessible and draw more visitors to the region. This will ultimately bring additional tourism dollars to the area, benefiting local businesses and the economy as a whole.

The news of this funding has been well-received by the community, as it recognizes the importance of investing in recreational infrastructure. The improved trail system will not only provide opportunities for families to engage in outdoor activities and promote healthy lifestyles but will also attract visitors from other regions. This will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the local economy.

As the project moves forward, the Bedford County Development Association will work diligently to complete the master trail connectivity study. This study will identify areas in need of improvement and propose solutions to enhance the overall trail system. The Greenways, Trails, and Recreation Program's support will ensure that this project receives the necessary resources to successfully implement these improvements.

With this grant funding, Bedford County is poised to become a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The investment in the trail system will not only benefit the local community but also contribute to Pennsylvania's economic growth as a whole.