At DOT, we’re committed to helping Americans get the transportation options they want--whether you want to ride a bike in one of our world class national parks or take a train through the heartland, we're working to make sure you have a choice.
Last Thursday, I had the pleasure of visiting one of our country’s great national treasures, Grand Teton National Park, to celebrate the completion of the Jackson-to-Jenny Lake multi-use path network.
This is a project that benefits everyone who lives in and visits Jackson Hole by giving park visitors another transportation option, improving safety, and enhancing the quality of life in the region.
The new pathway is also a model for parks and rural communities across the country. It demonstrates that biking is not just an option for urbanites in the big cities--it’s a good option for Americans in rural areas, too.
The project enhances rural livability by providing a well-connected bicycling network between Grand Teton National Park, The National Elk Refuge, Teton County, and the Town of Jackson.
DOT was proud to give $4.3 million in federal funds to help build the 6.5 mile section stretching from Gros Ventre Junction to Moose.
In its entirety, the path now stretches over 20 miles through the most breathtaking scenery in the country.
And it’s already proven to be widely popular--since its opening in June, tourists and residents have taken more than 4,000 trips on this path.
As Jackson Mayor Mark Barron said, “It’s an enhancement for the visitation of our greatest national park, Grand Teton. And it extends that national park experience back down into the Jackson community.”
This project is just a small part of President Obama’s efforts to support 21st century conservation and recreation--known as the America’s Great Outdoors Initiative.
Americans have made it clear that they want to reconnect--or connect for the first time--with the great outdoors, and the President’s initiative is taking important steps to fulfill that need.
And as long as there are Americans who want to visit our terrific national parks, DOT will continue to work on transportation projects like this one that help them get out of their cars and experience these tremendous resources firsthand.
Thank you Mr. Secretary -- it's great to have these trails which enable us to see and do more in such beautiful areas!
Posted by: Karl | August 14, 2012 at 09:28 AM
As a Jackson Hole resident we take advantage of these pathways frequently. It is so wonderful to be riding your bike up-close and personal with with Teton Mountains, wildflowers and the smell of sagebrush. Thank you and a big hooray for the United States! Lisa Delaney - Jackson Hole Sotheby's International Realty.
Posted by: Lisa Delaney | August 17, 2012 at 12:47 PM