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Rails to Trails Development Project Receives $50K DNR Grant

Saturday, October 2nd, 2021 -- 6:54 AM

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At the September 28th, Neillsville City Council meeting, Ward 2 council person Dan Clough announced that  the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources awarded a $50,000 grant to the City of Neillsville and Neillsville Improvement Corporation for the Neillsville Trailhead Complex and first section of the recreational trail project known as Rails to Trails.

With the unanimous passing of a motion made by ward 5 alderperson Julie Counsell on April 27th, NIC and the City of Neillsville became co-signers of the DNR grant application. Alderperson Dan Clough, who is also Vice President of NIC, noted that, per the DNR, competition was very tight this year due to the higher than normal number of applications. This support from the state will go towards the first phase of the Rails to Trails economic development project. The proposed trail will be on Northern States Power’s active powerline corridor along a former railroad bed.

The Neillsville Trailhead Complex will include a playground/park dedicated to Carl and Millie Opelt, whose  family has played a major role in the development of the community. This park will be unique for Neillsville in its water  access and its playground which will feature inclusive  elements for children of all abilities.

The trail can be used year  ‘round for bicycling, walking, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing. NIC serves as the fiscal agent for both the trailhead complex and the Rails-to-Trails Project.

Donations can be made by check, payable to Neillsville Improvement Corporation, 508 Hewett Street, Neillsville, WI 54456. If  making a donation specifically for the Opelt Project, checks should be made out to NIC with, “Opelt Project”  written on the memo line. You can also donate through NIC’s website: neillsvilleimprovement.jimdofree.com or through the donate button on their Facebook page.

Pictured: L to R: John Perrine (ward 1), Dave Harnisch (ward 3), Rick Buchsteiner (NIC Director), Mayor Diane Murphy, Dan Clough (ward 2 & NIC Vice President), Denise Clough (NIC Treasurer), Deanna Heiman (NIC President)

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.