Wapsi Trail awarded $100,000 Wellmark grant

     The Wellmark Foundation has approved the request from the Jones County Conservation Department for a $100,000 MATCH Grant for construction of Phase II of the Wapsipinicon Trail project.

     They are excited about the community’s commitment to the health of Jones County residents. The Wellmark Foundation works to make Iowa a better place for everyone to engage in a safe and healthy environment in which to be active, and the trail committee is dedicated to creating this outlet for the safety and well-being of the residents of Jones County. This project links up the City of Anamosa and Grant Wood Scenic Byway, with the historic Hale Bridge and Wapsipinicon State Park.

     The $100,000 MATCH Grant is a huge step in reaching the project’s funding goals. They are now 70 percent of the way, but they need to fill the final gap and ensure The Wellmark Foundation Grant and others are utilized in time. You can help them fill the funding gap and make this trail a success. Any donations are appreciated. For more information on the project, contact Brad at 563-487-3541 ext. 2. For information on the giving levels, contact Lisa at 319-462-6878. Donations can be sent to Friends of Jones County Conservation c/o F&M Bank/Wapsi Trail, 220 W. Main St., Anamosa, IA 52205.

     “Taking part in recreational activities, especially outdoors, can greatly improve physical health,” said Eric Briesemeister, CEO of UnityPoint Health – Jones Regional Medical Center. “Trails, when available, are one of the key public resources that all members of our communities can enjoy.”

     Be sure to “like” the Wapsipinicon Trail on Facebook.