Maine trail builders see grants as a path to growth

PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • September 11, 2026

In 2024, voters approved a historic $30 million bond for trails. The state awarded $7.5 million in grants last year and plans to announce a second round of awards this fall. The infusion of money comes as the sector is growing and professionalizing nationally and in the state. “That kind of investment in trails creates this pipeline of trail projects, and that ultimately does create growth,” said Aaryn Kay, executive director of the international Professional TrailBuilders Association.