State Rep. Jay DeBoyer today voted for planned recreational upgrades in St. Clair County that he worked to secure in the Legislature.

Within House Bill 4238 is funding for the development of North Channel County Park, including improvements to the park entrance and development of a trailhead for the adjacent Bridge-to-Bay Regional Trail. Planned amenities include a bike rack, bike repair station, picnic area, parking lot with ADA-compliant spaces, accessible walkways to the trailhead and more.

“Michigan’s natural beauty and numerous outdoor recreational offerings are two of its defining characteristics,” said DeBoyer, of Clay Township. “These upgrades will make our area a better place to live, work and raise a family and people from near and far will be able to enjoy the outdoors in St. Clair County.

“I will continue to pursue opportunities in the Legislature that get money directly into our region and our communities.”

The project will receive a $270,000 investment from the Natural Resources Trust Fund, with a $280,000 match coming from St. Clair County for a total estimated cost of $550,000.

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.