Harkins, Merski: $150K secured to construct, maintain Erie snowmobile trails
Rep. Robert Merski, Rep. Patrick J. Harkins August 29, 2023 | 4:10 PM
ERIE, Aug. 29 – Three grants totaling $150,000 will fund the purchase of equipment to construct and maintain more than 300 miles of snowmobile trails in Erie and surrounding counties, state Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski announced today.
The lawmakers, both D-Erie, said the funding from the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources include:
- $115,000 to Tri-County Snowblazers Inc. for equipment to maintain and construct approximately 90 miles of snowmobile trails in Erie, Warren and Crawford counties.
- $24,000 to Wales Sno-Drifters Inc. for equipment to maintain and construct approximately 50 miles of snowmobile trails in Erie County.
- $11,000 to McKean Area Snowmobile Club Inc. for equipment to maintain and construct approximately 162 miles of snowmobile trails in Erie, Crawford and Warren counties.
“An extended season for winter sports like snowmobiling is one of our area’s unique attractions. But maintaining safe trails is costly,” Merski said. “The new funding will help ensure that our area organizations have the equipment they need to keep the trails groomed and maintained on a regular basis.”
Harkins said, “Trail quality and safety play a huge part in what kind of experience folks have and whether they want to return for repeat adventures. Our region is fortunate to have clubs whose members are dedicated to maintaining our extensive trails. Securing these grants will ensure they have the equipment they need to give riders the best, safest experience possible.”
The lawmakers noted that in addition to the funding listed above, the Pennsylvania State Snowmobile Association is receiving $41,000 to coordinate and fund the 2024 Snowmobile Mini-Grant Program.
The funding is part of a package of grants that were awarded to 10 organizations statewide from the ATV Management and the Snowmobile Management restricted accounts.