MONTGOMERY— One of Alabama’s premier parks for off-the-road vehicles is about to receive an upgrade thanks to an $807,300 grant awarded by Gov. Kay Ivey.
The grant to TOP Trails in Talladega County will enable the park to make numerous improvements including constructing a track for a motocross course and adding to existing trails in the 2,800-acre complex.
“TOP Trails continues to do a wonderful job meeting the needs of off-road-vehicle enthusiasts in Alabama and the Southeast,” Ivey said. “I am pleased to provide these grant funds for the park’s latest project, which will continue to make the complex a premier outdoor destination for people throughout the state and the region.”
Funds allocated from the federal Recreational Trails Program will be used to make numerous improvements including:
- Improve trail signage including installing signs on the five miles of new trail.
- Construct a new restroom and shower facility and a wash station for vehicles.
- Pave the entrance road and several in-park access roads.
- Supply power to several remote areas still without electricity.
- Improve an artesian well to make it conducive for swimming.
- Purchase additional park maintenance equipment.
- Improve medical and safety measures in cases of emergencies.
The TOP Trails complex is a combined project of the cities of Lincoln and Talladega, which have created a board to oversee management of the park. The park has relied on volunteer assistance from numerous groups including the Cheaha Trail Rides, Talladega Bow Hunters Association, Boy Scouts of America and others.
Ivey notified Buster Taylor, TOP Trails Park board chairman, that the grant had been approved. Local funds of $201,825 have been pledged for the project.
The Recreational Trails Program is a program of the Federal Highway Administration and is administered in the state by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs.
“Gov. Ivey is aware of Alabama’s wonderful outdoor resources and the potential they have to provide recreation and increase tourism,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “I am proud to work with the governor and our partners in Talladega County and the surrounding area to improve on an already great trail complex.”
ADECA manages a wide array of programs that support law enforcement and traffic safety, energy conservation, water resource management, economic development and recreation.
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