Connect With Your Community!
Connect With Your Community!
Manhattan Trail System, Inc. (MTS) is taking initial steps in efforts to create a multi-use trail connection between Manhattan, Logan, and Three Forks.
Earlier this year, MTS was awarded a US Department of Transportation (USDOT) Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program grant in partnership with Gallatin County to complete a feasibility study for a multi-use trail that connects the Manhattan to the Gallatin River Trail and the Headwaters Trail System in Three Forks. The feasibility study is a critical first step to determine the preferred route for this 9-mile trail connection.
The extension of the trail between Manhattan and Three Forks is a key milestone for the Great American Rail-Trail®, the nation's first cross-country, multi-use trail, spearheaded by Rails to Trails Conservancy (RTC). Now over 55% complete, this trail will link people from across the U.S. and beyond, offering a one-of-a-kind journey through America's diverse landscapes, from big cities to small towns. RTC provided the necessary matching funds to MTS to secure the USDOT Reconnecting Communities grant for the feasibility study.
"A project like this requires the support of many organizations and individuals," says Buck Buchanan, president of Manhattan Trail System, Inc. "The trail committee would like to make sure that the parties involved in making this first step possible are thanked, including Rails to Trails Conservancy, US Senator Jon Tester, MT State Senator Walt Sales, Stahly Engineering, Montana Department of Transportation Engineer Jean Riley, Gallatin County and the Gallatin County Commissioners, Gene Townsend and Pat O'Brien Townsend, and the Manhattan Trail System committee."
"Completing the 9-mile Manhattan Trail System connection will make a meaningful impact on Montana's portion of the Great American Rail-Trail. This connection adds 2% to the route through the state," says Kevin Belle, RTC's project manager for the Great American Rail-Trail. "A trail connection between Manhattan and Three Forks is a crucial step in connecting the trail into Bozeman and beyond, allowing these smaller communities to reap the benefits of trail tourism and outdoor recreation."
The successful completion of this study/project remains a top priority for all parties involved, including the generous private donors who support MTS, a 501(c)(3) organization. The public can stay informed with project updates, access trail maps, learn about upcoming events, and support this important initiative by visiting manhattantrailsystem.com. Contributions will help ensure the timely completion of this critical trail connection.
