**Kuster secured funding for the Heritage Rail Trail project in the House of Representatives**

Keene, N.H. — Today, Rep. Annie Kuster (NH-02) joined Keene Mayor George Hansel, Keene City Manager Elizabeth Dragon, and Keene city officials to tour the Heritage Rail Trail project and highlight funding for the project Rep. Kuster secured in the House of Representatives through H.R. 4502, the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. In this legislation, Rep. Kuster secured ten targeted Community Project Funding requests for New Hampshire. Kuster addressed the importance of getting this funding passed in the final FY 2022 Transportation, Housing & Urban Development appropriations bill.

“Expanding commuting and recreational opportunities in New Hampshire is critical to improving economic competitiveness and spurring more green communities,” said Rep. Kuster. “The Heritage Rail Trail project will create ways for Granite Staters and tourists to bike, walk, and more between Keene and Swanzey, creating new economic opportunities for the region and outlets to get outdoors. I was proud to support funding for this project in the House of Representatives through our community project process, and I’m excited for the impact it will have on the Keene community and region. I look forward to working to get these important funds over the finish line.”

“Improving the Keene Heritage Trail is a top priority for Keene because of its importance to increasing transportation and recreational options in the region,” said Elizabeth Dragon, Keene City Manager. “These proposed improvements would not be possible without teamwork on the national and local level, and we are grateful to have the strong support of Congresswoman Kuster to help bring us one step closer to achieving the transportation upgrades needed on the Heritage Trail here in Keene.” 

The Keene Heritage Trail project was allocated $394,800 through House of Representatives appropriations for the construction and improvement of 4,100 feet of the Keene Transportation Heritage Trail. This trail network will improve the quality, safety and functionality of the City’s transportation facilities for pedestrians, bicyclists and other non-motorized users. Additionally, this expanded section of trail will serve as an important thoroughfare between the City of Keene and the Town of Swanzey. 

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