Two East Texas Parks Receive Major Trail Improvement Grants

East Texas has so much to do and see. It's a wonderful place to call home. But there are now two East Texas parks that have been awarded grants that are going to make trails even better.

While improvements to trails are not as exciting as some of the other things going on in Texas, like rollercoasters being built at Six Flags, it’s still fantastic to see improvements made closer to home here in East Texas.

How Much Funding Is Coming to East Texas?

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has awarded $6.17 million in statewide recreational trail grants to improve 21 parks and trail projects. A total of $354,000 is set to be distributed between two parks in East Texas.

READ MORE: Hiker Died at Guadalupe Peak Trail in Texas

Tyler's Park of East Texas Receives Largest Grant

The bulk of the money, $300,000, was awarded to The Park of East Texas located at 204 Patton Lane in Tyler. The improvements include a mile-long trail for motorized traffic like ATVs, UTVs and dirt bikes. There will be a 6-foot-wide loop that will include trail signs, park furniture, a trailhead, a parking lot and entry gate.

Get our free mobile app

Improvements Planned for Gun Barrel City Trails

The second project receiving funding is Gun Barrel City Park Trails, which was awarded $54,700. Henderson County has been awarded $54,700 to renovate the trails. The improved 5-foot-wide trail, just under 1 mile long, will allow space for motor traffic and will add recycled asphalt.

There is no time frame on exactly when these projects will be completed. But it’s fantastic to hear that we have funds available to make these improvements.