The Iowa Transportation Commission approved more than $6.6 million in federal funding for trail and park infrastructure improvements during its January meeting in Ames, distributing resources across two programs that will benefit both motorized and non-motorized recreational users in multiple regions of the state. The dual allocations, finalized on Jan. 13, 2026, direct substantial investment toward bridge repairs, trail connectors, pedestrian infrastructure and maintenance equipment that will enhance outdoor recreation access for years to come.
Through the Federal Recreational Trails Program, the Commission awarded $1,348,600 to four projects serving diverse recreational constituencies. The program, established in 1991 to support trail development and maintenance, draws its funding from federal fuel taxes paid by off-road recreational vehicle users. Cities, counties, state and federal agencies, and private organizations may apply annually for these competitive grants, according to details from the Iowa Department of Transportation’s announcement of the recreational trails funding awards.
The Polk County Conservation Board received the largest single award under this program, securing $468,000 for Skunk River Bridge Repair. The Linn County Conservation Board will use $325,000 to construct the Pinicon Ridge Park Wapsi Bluff Trail Connector, while the Iowa Department of Natural Resources obtained $291,600 for Off-Highway Vehicle Park Maintenance Equipment. The Iowa State Snowmobile Association rounds out the recipients with $264,000 designated for Snow Trail Maintenance Equipment.
In a separate action during the same meeting, the Commission approved $5,330,393 through the Statewide Transportation Alternatives Set-aside Program, directing funds to six projects with statewide or multi-regional significance. This program emphasizes trail system expansion and safe routes to school initiatives that connect communities and encourage active transportation.
The Pottawattamie County Conservation Board captured the largest allocation, receiving $1,920,435 for the Great American Rail Trail: Weston to Underwood project. This segment represents a critical link in the coast-to-coast trail corridor connecting Washington state to Washington, D.C. Central City secured $1,400,000 for a pedestrian bridge project, while Burlington will invest $750,000 in the Summer Street – Dankwardt Park Connector Trail.
The remaining Transportation Alternatives Set-aside awards support community connections and environmental stewardship. The city of Camanche received $500,000 for trail extensions that will enhance local recreational infrastructure. The University of Northern Iowa Tallgrass Prairie Center obtained $447,956 for Integrated Roadside Vegetation Management, reflecting Iowa’s commitment to sustainable land management practices along transportation corridors. The Iowa Northland Regional Council of Governments will use $312,002 for the Iowa Safe Routes Partnership, continuing efforts to improve safe travel options for students and pedestrians.
The combined impact of both funding programs advances Iowa’s recreational infrastructure across multiple regions, serving constituencies ranging from snowmobile clubs to cycling enthusiasts to families seeking safe pedestrian routes. The federal funding sources, including fuel taxes paid by off-road recreational vehicle users for the Recreational Trails Program, ensure that those who use trail systems contribute to their development and maintenance. With awards distributed through competitive application processes open to public and private entities alike, the investments reflect priorities identified by local conservation boards, municipalities, state agencies and private organizations working to enhance outdoor recreation throughout Iowa.