Recreational Trails Program

The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) is a Federal reimbursement program funded through section 1109 of the FAST Act, as codified under Title 23 of the United States Code, sections 133(b)(6), 133(h)(5)(C), and 206. In New Mexico, RTP is administered by NMDOT.

The RTP provides funding authority to the states to develop and maintain recreational trails and trail related facilities for both non-motorized and motorized recreational trail uses. Examples of trail uses include hiking, bicycling, in-line skating, equestrian use, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, off-road motorcycling, all-terrain vehicle riding, four-wheel driving, or using other off-road motorized vehicles.

The goals of the NM RTP are to:

1. Improve the health and quality of life for New Mexicans by increasing trail-related recreational opportunities within and around communities.
2. Provide funding through a transparent, accessible program to communities and government agencies for the development of recreational trails and related educational programs for a variety of users.
3. Fund projects that result in “on-the-ground” benefits to users.
4. Meet the federal requirements regarding expenditure of 30% of funds on non-motorized trails, 30% on motorized trails and 40% on diversified trails.