SE Illinois News

Thanks to a federal grant, the Sahara Woods State Fish and Wildlife Area will be the site of an off-road trail opening in 2019 that’s expected to draw riders from across the region to the Saline County venue.

The state will contribute an additional $303,000 to the $1.2 million grant from the Recreational Trails Program to support the project, positioned as an economic boon to the area that was once a coal mine, according to a press release from Gov. Bruce Rauner’s office.

“Expanding on the treasures that Sahara Woods already offers could translate into increased job opportunities and a much-needed economic boost for the region,” Sen. Dale Fowler (R-Harrisburg) said in the release. “It will go a long way in boosting tourism in Saline County, giving us a platform to continue promoting southern Illinois in the future.” 

Sen. Dale Fowler | Courtesy of ilga.gov/

The 26-mile off-road trail joins a list of other mine reclamation projects at the site, including boating, hunting and fishing access, the announcement said. The RTP sources its funds from fuel excise taxes to support projects nationwide.

“Demand is growing for off-highway vehicle recreation, and this state-of-the-art facility will give riders from across the Midwest a place to enjoy the outdoors,” Rauner said in the announcement. “Not only will this trail bring additional resources to southern Illinois, it’ll also put Illinois on the map when it comes to offering diverse outdoor experience for riders of all ages.”