State Rep. Aaron Miller today voted in favor of a plan that would help increase access to local trails from the City of Dowagiac by creating a link to eight miles of existing trails.

The legislation approved by the House Appropriations Committee – with Miller’s support – includes $56,200 to purchase an easement along the south side of Dowagiac Creek. The city plans to use the easement to build a trail link.

“This project is a great example of using a self-sustaining program to help invest in our local communities,” Miller said. “As one of the many citizens who enjoys exploring our local network of trails and parks, I am excited to see the city of Dowagiac’s planned trail link become reality.”

Overall, the legislation approved by the House Appropriations Committee includes $26 million for more than 60 projects statewide. The money would come from the Natural Resources Trust Fund, which according to the Michigan constitution can only be used to support these types of projects.

The projects were recommended by the Natural Resources Trust Fund Board in December. The recommendations are subject to approval by the Michigan Legislature, a process started with the committee’s approval of House Bill 4244.

The legislation advances to the House floor for further consideration.

Money in the Natural Resources Trust Fund comes from the development of minerals on state land and is designated on an annual basis in partnership with the state and local governments.

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