This month’s WWRP category is State Parks. These grants help our state continue to develop our world-class parks system to share our cultural heritage and natural treasures with both state residents and visitors. They are a key source of funding to modernize park facilities, create new parks, and improve park amenities.
Our featured State Parks project is Iron Horse-Renslow Trestle Decking and Railing. This $1.23 million grant will complete a key “missing link” of the statewide Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail. State Parks will use the grant to install new concrete decking, railing, and safety fencing on the 680 foot long historic Renslow Trestle that connects two portions of the trail separated by I-90 between Ellensburg and the Columbia River. Currently trail users must take an arduous and unsafe detour around the trestle.
When the project is completed in 2020, hikers, bikers, and horseback riders will be able to enjoy a safe, continuous trail and an exciting new element of the trail experience. The Renslow Trestle renovations are supported by dozens of organizations and individuals, including the Palouse to Cascades Trail Coalition, the Back Country Horsemen of Washington, the John Wayne Pioneer Wagons and Riders Association, the Cascade Rail Foundation, and the Inland Northwest Trails Coalition.
