Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC), a non-profit organization based in Washington, D.C., whose mission it is to create a nationwide network of trails from former rail lines, is stepping in to assist Missouri trail advocates in a bid to preserve a 145-mile segment of inactive rail corridor right through the heart of the state.

“Although nothing is certain at this early stage, if we are successful in purchasing the corridor and making it available for trail development, we will be supporting the dreams and ambitions of local communities to build a connection to the nearby Katy Trail, and so create a 400-mile rail-trail network that would put the eyes of the trail world firmly on the state of Missouri,” said RTC President Keith Laughlin.

However, to achieve this vision of a world-class, statewide trail network in Missouri, trail users will need to show their support by signing a petition urging Governor Jay Nixon and the owners of the corridor to allow the creation of a rail-trail. You can sign the petition and get details on the corridor and its proposed development on the RTC website.

Image: Courtesy of Rails-to-Trails Conservancy