The MassTrails Grant Program announced $11.4 million to 81 rail improvement projects across the Commonwealth to expand and connect the state’s network of trails.

The MassTrails Grant Program supports projects that build public-private partnerships to maintain and improve existing trails and construct new ones. These projects provide opportunities for recreation, physical activity and transportation – all of which can help benefit healthy aging.

Communities working to become more age- and dementia friendly can consider adding benches, way-finding signage and other features listed in this guidance document.

The MassTrails Grant Program is funded through the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation’s (DCR) capital budget and from Recreational Trails Program grants funded through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration, which is administered on the state level by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT).

See the full list of recently announced projects here.