Dear
Friends of Trailways,
We’re writing today to introduce
you to the West Michigan Trails and Greenways Coalition $6 Million
Capital Campaign. This association is a wonderful new development
in organizing construction of our regional non-motorized trails network.
Our hope is that as a coalition of groups all working with the same
vision we’ll be able to secure funding and utilize those funds
more efficiently.
Because of the tremendous growth of
interest in and use of the existing trails, and the work that needs
to be done to complete and connect all our trails, we have agreed
to co-chair a new fundraising campaign for the organization. We are
already working with the Federal, State, and local governments, foundations
and volunteer groups to complete the next 140 miles of new, non-motorized
trails in West Michigan.
In Phase 1 of our vision, the Coalition,
comprising over 50 local and regional organizations, hopes to organize
and raise $6 million in matching funds to complement $21 million in
Federal and State grants to fund the construction of trails in 10
counties of West Michigan over the next 3 years. Much of these funds
are already earmarked for trails in current transportation bills.
But without matching funds they cannot be utilized.
A number of community leaders and three
congressmen have endorsed this campaign or are serving as honorary
co-chairs for this effort. Each recognizes the importance of acquiring
these funds for our trails. We have completed a feasibility study
and campaign plan, and are very encouraged by the feedback we have
received. And finally, we need to thank Fred Meijer for contributing
$3 million towards our Phase 1 campaign goal. Please join us in this
important effort for health, for the environment, and for the quality
of life here in West Michigan.
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