Committee OKs bill extending unpaved trail program to include maintenance

Senate Bill 498 was presented as an extension of previous support for unpaved trail construction to also include maintenance of those trails. Sponsor testimony said specialized construction and maintenance are required to ensure trails remain safe and attractive to visitors, and that good maintenance affects reputation and future visitation.

Senator Bart Hester explained that the bill would allow the state to account for both construction and ongoing maintenance needs for trails and that communities sometimes rely on donated services and special expertise to construct and maintain high-quality trails.

The committee moved and seconded a do-pass motion and, after a voice vote, the chair announced the bill passed out of committee.

Next steps: SB 498 was advanced by the committee to the chamber for further consideration.