PRPL seeks City Council consent to accept $100,000 from an FWP Recreational Trails Program grant. Additionally, PRPL requests approval to utilize these funds, alongside $25,000 in matching resources (in-kind labor and cash), to repair and improve the Arnold Drain Trail in Lillis Park, as described in the grant application.

The Arnold Drain Trail, located in the east-west portion of Lillis Park, is a critical community asset serving pedestrians, cyclists, wheelchair users, and families. Years of wear have resulted in large cracks and surface deterioration, posing safety risks and limiting accessibility. This project will restore approximately 1,700 feet of the asphalt trail, addressing hazards and upgrading features to meet ADA standards, in the section between 24th street and the bridge over the Big Ditch.

Improvements include:
Repaving the trail and repairing cracks.
Removing bollards on the bridge for safe wheelchair and stroller access.
Adding ADA-compliant ramps, curb cuts, and an accessible picnic table with a concrete pad.
Installing wayfinding signage to improve connectivity with surrounding trail networks.

This project aligns with community plans, including the Billings Trail Asset Management Plan, Billings Bike and Trails Plan, and federal Healthy People 2030 objectives.

Key stakeholders for this project include:
Billings TrailNet: Non-profit organization that submitted the grant application.

Living Independently For Today and Tomorrow (LIFTT): Advocates for accessibility and ADA compliance.

Local Schools: Meadowlark Elementary, Trinity Lutheran, Burlington Elementary, and Will James Middle, whose students and families utilize the trail.

Community Organizations: AARP Billings, Adult Resource Alliance, Team Red, White, and Blue, and Eagle Mount, which support trail usage for recreation and physical health.

Nearby Residential Facilities: Grandview Apartments and the Springs at Grand Park, whose residents include individuals with mobility impairments and older adults.

City of Billings Parks, Recreation, and Public Lands Department: Responsible for the trail’s construction and long-term maintenance.

City Council may:

• Approve the grant acceptance and authorize the trail repair project.
• Not Approve the funding, resulting in continued trail deterioration and safety risks.

The project budget of $125,000 will be funded through:
$100,000 from the RTP grant.

$25,000 in matching contributions from PRPL, including:

In-kind labor: Estimated at $10,000-$13,000 for tasks such as tree removal, bollard removal, irrigation adjustments, and project management.

Cash contributions: Approximately $12,000-$15,000 from PRPL project accounts.