Way-heartland trail, phase 3A

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) awarded Ohio Department of Transportation $1,052,631.58 on July 7, 2025, under the Highway Planning and Construction program (CFDA 20.205) to construct Phase 3A of the WAY-Heartland Trail in Wayne County, Ohio. The project involves the construction of a multi-use recreational trail that begins at Allen Avenue and extends northward along an abandoned railroad bed, ultimately connecting to an existing trailhead on Forrer Road. This formula grant supports the development of active transportation infrastructure and aligns with the program's emphasis on multimodal transportation network improvements and recreational trails development.

The Highway Planning and Construction program, authorized under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, provides federal financial assistance to state departments of transportation for a broad range of highway and transportation projects, including bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. The WAY-Heartland Trail Phase 3A project exemplifies eligible activities under this program, which prioritizes improvements to transportation safety, infrastructure resilience, and the development of comprehensive multimodal networks that enhance connectivity between communities and recreational facilities.

Project description

Construction of multi-use trail beginning at allen AVE. Heading north along old railroad bed and connecting to the existing trailhead on forrer RD. Wayne county.