The Raccoon River Valley Trail (RRVT), a vital asset for Greene County and the Jefferson community, received a financial boost thanks to a combined $9,000 grant. This funding includes a $5,000 contribution from Jefferson Telecom, matched by a $4,000 Ripple Effect grant from Aureon.
The Raccoon River Valley Trail, a 72-mile loop within 89 miles of paved trail, attracts more than 350,000 visitors annually, generating significant tourism for the community. Due to years of use, the Jefferson/Greene County portion of the trail is in need of crucial repairs.
To address this issue, the grant funding from Jefferson Telecom and Aureon will be used to cover the cost of an economic impact study performed by the Iowa Bicycle Coalition. This study is a critical step in securing additional funding for trail repairs. The data collected may be used to support a potential county TIF district amendment to secure the necessary funds for the project’s completion.
Led by Greene County Conservation and other local volunteers, the community is hopeful that RRVT repairs will not only ensure the continued enjoyment of this valuable asset, but also continue to support the economic vitality of the region. Persons who want more information about the Raccoon River Valley Trail and the economic impact study can contact Tanner Scheuermann at tscheuermann@greenecounty.iowa.gov.
