JEFFERSON CITY—The Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Division of the State Parks, has announced that Perry County has been selected as a 2021 grant recipient of $250,000 for a Recreational Trails Program.
Twenty-nine applications were received, with funding request totaling over $4.6 million.
Of those, eight were approved by the Federal Highway Administration for grant assistance on December 27, 2021.
The funds will pay for the construction of the Legion Lake Multi-Use Trail at the American Legion Memorial Park in Perryville.
The trail will include 4.5-miles of five-foot wide natural single trail that will be a continuous loop including ten bridges, three bike-only directional mini flow trails for beginners, intermediate and advanced riders with a natural stone starting hub; a 7,500 sq. foot bike handling skills trail and 12,000 sq. foot dirt pump track for beginners to advanced for practice and training.
All trails will be made of natural materials consisting of dirt, rock, crushed limestone, or wood in keeping with the natural landscape.
Areas will be provided along the trail for rest stops, native tree, plant and animal identifications, and habitat improvements for pollination of bees, butterflies, and insects, including installation of bat and duck houses to encourage an environment supporting native area wildlife.
A new 20×30 foot concrete slab pavilion with a metal roof for family and event use and a restroom along with a wooden information kiosk will enhance the trail head and keep the public informed of upcoming events and educational park facts all totaling $367,000.
The development of the trail will allow a unique outdoor experience and natural opportunity for both residents and visitors to hike, nature walk, train, run and mountain bike within the City of Perryville.
Construction is anticipated to begin spring/summer of 2022.