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Recreational Trails ProgramNew Mexico State Parks t is responsible for administering the Recreational Trails Program (RTP). The RTP is a federal assistance program made possible through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). The RTP provides up to 80% of project funds to develop, improve and maintain trails and trail-related facilities for motorized and non-motorized recreational trail uses. These federal funds make it possible to enhance, improve and increase recreational opportunities in New Mexico through the development and maintenance of recreational trails and trail-related facilities. Eligible applicants include local, state and federal agencies, Native American tribes and pueblos, and non-profit organizations in partnership with eligible agencies. GOOD NEWS FOR THE NEW MEXICO RECREATIONAL TRAILS COMMUNITYThe New Mexico Recreational Trails Program (RTP) will be in effect for the FFY13 beginning October 1, 2012 thru September 30, 2013. The US Congress enacted H.R. 4348 "Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century" (MAP-21) and the President signed it into law, Public Law No: 112-141. The legislation re-authorized highway funding for two-years through September 30, 2014. Additionally, the law created a new program, Section 1122, Transportation Alternatives (TA); and Section 213 of title 23, United States Code. More importantly, the new legislation gave each state Governor the opportunity to "Opt Out" of the RTP in FFY13 and/or FFY14. The State Governor or their designee had until September 1, 2012 to advise the FHWA if the state was going to "Opt Out" of RTP as a stand-alone program. The Recreational Trails Program in New Mexico will continue for Federal Fiscal Year 13. On August 30, 2012 the NM Department of Transportation (NMDOT) Secretary transmitted a letter to FHWA stating that New Mexico will NOT OPT OUT of RTP in FFY13. State Parks will continue to work with the NMDOT to preserve the Recreational Trails Program in FFY14. NMSPD is doing everything we can to see that the RTP continues to exist as a stand-alone program for the benefit of all New Mexicans. Please check back on the web page for further For more information contact: Maurice (Moses) A. Mondary, State Trails Administrator
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