The Town of Darby is the recipient of a $35,000 grant for expansion and improvements on the Trail of Discovery trail system, which will be over 6 miles in length upon completion. The Darby Trail of Discovery continues to grow and link neighborhoods, rural subdivisions, and City parks and schools. The trail system provides safer access to outlying USFS trail systems and walking and biking opportunities for commuting, exercise, and enjoyment within and outside the Town of Darby. A check presentation ceremony was held on Saturday, June 4 and was attended by members of the Darby Trails Committee, Mayor Rick Scheele, Darby Town Hall administrative and maintenance personnel, and members of the Town Council. Approximately 20 volunteers joined in the celebration with the award ceremony followed by a barbecue and walk along the paved portion of the trail, which is adjacent to the Darby schools.
The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) is a federal program funded through the Transportation Bill from the U.S. Congress, administered by Montana State Parks with oversight from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Eligible grant applicants include federal, state, county or municipal agencies, private associations and clubs. Since 1993, RTP has funded 645 projects in Montana with over $11 million.
Since 2007, the Darby Trail of Discovery committee has raised over $171,500 through donations, fundraisers and grant programs. This is the third Recreational Trails Program grant awarded to the Town of Darby and the Trails Committee has secured over $90,000 in RTP funds.