State Rep. Greg Alexander recently voted for planned recreational upgrades in Sanilac County that he worked to secure in the Legislature.

Within House Bill 4238 is funding for water trail access and park improvements at Evergreen Park in Cass City. The upgrades will include the addition of an accessible kayak launch along the 37.5-mile Cass River Water Trail project. The upgrades will also feature two accessible playground locations within the park and barrier-free public pavilions.

“This park is a scenic showcase for our region, and these improvements will make the area an even better place to live, work and visit,” said Alexander, of Carsonville. “I will continue fighting in the Legislature to return tax dollars to communities in our area so people and their families can have the best return possible on the hard-earned money they afford to state government.”

A $300,000 investment for the project will come from the state’s Natural Resources Trust Fund, with a $387,400 match coming locally to meet the estimated $687,400 total cost.

Money in the Natural Resources Trust Fund comes from revenues generated by the development of minerals on state land – not taxpayer money – and is distributed on an annual basis in partnership with local governments. The money must be used for land acquisition or recreational development projects, according to the Michigan Constitution. The trust fund program dates back to the 1970s.

The recommendations within HB 4238 advance to the Senate for further consideration after receiving overwhelming support in the House.