Connecticut has secured $7,165,955 in initial federal funding for the Air Line State Park Trail, marking the first year of an anticipated five-year, $40 million investment from the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) aimed at boosting public health through improved outdoor recreation in rural communities. This significant award will enhance the 50-mile multi-use trail, which spans northeastern Connecticut and is popular among walkers, runners, hikers, bikers, and horseback riders.
The funding will facilitate crucial upgrades to the trail, including smoother surfaces, improved drainage, better signage, and more accessible entry points. These enhancements are designed to encourage greater use of the trail for physical activity, supporting better health outcomes for residents of all ages and abilities in the region. Partnerships with local health organizations will also educate residents on how trail activities can contribute to their health goals.
Governor Ned Lamont highlighted the importance of such initiatives, saying, "Outdoor recreation opportunities are a big part of the high quality of life residents enjoy in Connecticut." DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes echoed this sentiment, stating, "Access to the outdoors is one of the most effective and affordable ways to improve public health." The project is part of a broader RHTP initiative involving 30 projects across 10 state agencies, totaling over $154 million in federal awards for Connecticut.
The grant specifically targets improvements within seven rural municipalities along the trail: Lebanon, Windham, Chaplin, Hampton, Pomfret, Putnam, and Thompson, which meet federal "rural" definitions. DSS Commissioner Andrea Barton Reeves emphasized that the RHTP "will strengthen effective programs across many state agencies." The extensive rural reach of the Air Line State Park Trail was a key factor in securing this investment.
DEEP is now moving into the implementation phase, preparing procurement scopes, contractor selections, and site readiness tasks. Early work will include environmental and project planning, trail use assessment, vegetation clearing, and planning outreach campaigns for residents and healthcare providers, alongside engagement events with health-provider partners.