Agenda Item #__1____
Columbus Consolidated Government
Council Meeting
Agenda Report #__221__
To: Mayor and Council
Subject: Georgia Trails and Greenways Grant
Initiated By: Parks and Recreation Department
________________________________________________________________________________
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RECOMMENDATION: Approval is requested to submit an application and if approved
accept $100,000 in grant funds from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources
to provide multi-purpose drinking stations, and signage along the trail and
gateways. There is a 20% match that is already committed to this trail system.
This will increase water stations along the trail for the special population
and create more pet friendly stations as well. This project will be Phase I of
IV that is being considered along the Riverwalk.
BACKGROUND: The purpose of the program is to provide citizens of all types and
their pets a more enjoyable experience along the Riverwalk Linear Trail. The
Georgia Department of Natural Resources - Georgia Recreational Trail Grant is
to provide and maintain recreational trails and trails-related facilities
identified in, or that further a specific goal, the Statewide Comprehensive
Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), as required by the Federal Land and Water
Conservation Fund Act (LWCF).
ANALYSIS: The Rails to Trail Program is recognized and authorized by the U.S.
Congress, the U.S. Department of Transportation, Department of Natural
Resources and the Governor of the state of Georgia. There is currently $6
million dedicated to alternative transportation projects in our city.
AMEND: Amend the multi-governmental fund, as needed for the grant reimbursement
funds to cross over the fiscal year. Parks & Recreation, Engineering and
Planning Departments are coordinating the grant logistics and will utilize the
partner funds and grant funds if awarded for trail enhancement.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS: The State will reimburse 80% of the design and
purchase of signage and drinking stations. The 20% match will be allocated
from the Rails to Trails Program..
RECOMMENDATION: Authorize a resolution to approve the application and
acceptance for grant funds in the amount of $100,000 from the Georgia
Department of Natural Resources for the design, purchase and place signs and 5
drinking stations along the Riverwalk Linear trail.
A RESOLUTION
NO. __________
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING TO SUBMIT AN APPLICATION AND IF APPROVED
ACCEPT A $100,000 GRANT FROM THE GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES FOR
SIGNS AND DRINKING STATIONS ALONG THE COLUMBUS RIVERWALK LINEAR TRAIL TO CREATE
PET FRIENDLY STATIONS. AMEND THE MULTI-GOVERNMENTAL FUND FOR THE AMOUNT OF
THE GRANT THAT IS AWARDED TO CROSS OVER THE 2007-2008 AND POSSIBLE THE
2008-2009 FISCAL YEARS.
WHEREAS, the Department of Parks and Recreation administers programs
and grants for the benefit of the City and our community members and is
instrumental in the enhancement of the Riverwalk trail; and,
WHEREAS, the Department of Parks and Recreation would like to utilize
the proposed funds to augment the cost of signage and drinking stations along
the Columbus Riverwalk Linear Trail; and,
WHEREAS, amend the Multi-Governmental Fund for the amount approved for
the grant; and,
WHEREAS, the City provides viable connections to other trails,
greenways, scenic corridors, natural and recreational areas in around our
parks; and,
WHEREAS, the need for funding to expand current and future trail
programs is needed, providing an opportunity for tourism expansion with the
promise of a positive impact on our economy, vital to the health and well-being
of all citizens.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA, HEREBY RESOLVES AS
FOLLOWS:
That the City Manager is hereby authorized to:
1. Submit an application and if approved accept a $100,000 Georgia Trails and
Greenways Grant from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources; and,
2. Provide the 20% match from the Rails to Trails Program account; and,
3. Amend the Multi-Governmental fund for the amount of the grant that is
awarded to cross over the FY08/09 Fiscal Years.
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Introduced at a regular meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia, held this
______ day of _____________, 2008, and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of _______ members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _______________.
Councilor Anthony voting _______________.
Councilor Baker voting _______________.
Councilor Barnes voting _______________.
Councilor Davis voting _______________.
Councilor Henderson voting _______________.
Councilor Hunter voting _______________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _______________.
Councilor Pugh voting _______________.
Councilor Woodson voting _______________.
_____________________________ ________________________________
Clerk of Council, Tiny Washington Mayor, Jim Wetherington
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