DC receives funds to complete valley trail

Douglas County was awarded $106,000 from the Nevada State Parks Recreational Trail Program for the construction of a trailhead on Buckeye Road to serve the proposed Martin Slough Bike Path.

The Douglas County project was one of 12 selected out of 22 applicants.

When complete, the Martin Slough Bike Path will connect Jakes Wetland in Minden to the Gilman Ponds in Gardnerville.  he path will be 2.61miles long and consist of a 10-foot wide paved section.

The trailhead will consist of several parking spots, including ADA parking, educational signage, and paved access from the trail to the parking area. The grant requires a 20 percent match of local funds. Douglas County provided $20,000, and Minden and Gardnerville each kicked in $3,000.

Existing parking is available at the north end of the project at the Jake’s Wetland Trail Head and at the south end of the project at the Gilman Ponds, but parking was limited mid-trail. These parking spots will also allow for easy access to proposed fishing pond just South of Buckeye Road.

Martin Slough Bike Path is nearly 90 percent complete. Douglas County is working with NDOT to complete acquisition of the required easements to accommodate the bike path. A construction schedule will be set once all necessary easements have been acquired.