Financially speaking, the city of Pittsburg is one step closer to completing its Rails to Trails hike and bike path project.
On Tuesday, during a reception in the lobby of M&I Wealth Management, the city received a $45,000 grant from The Leon V. & Dorothy M. Skubitz Foundation. The Rails to Trails path, which will run from 11th and Broadway southwest to First and Georgia, is a joint venture between the city and Watco Companies, Inc. The path, which will replace abandoned railroad tracks, will include a trailhead and parking at the east end of the trail and associated facilities along the trail.
"The generous donation of land and resources by Watco Companies, Inc., in partnership with the resources and support of the city of Pittsburg, has resulted in a very successful project," Julie Plank, M&I trust administrator, said. "It is a pleasure to be able to provide charitable funding to bring this venture to fruition.
"Replacing abandoned railroad tracks with a hike and bike trail that connects residential neighborhoods in the west-central part of town to the downtown area will serve the Pittsburg population well," she said. “The trail will provide a safe route for children walking to and from school, provide mobility and independence for the elderly, handicapped and those who cannot drive, and promote a healthier lifestyle for all citizens."
Todd Kennemer, assistant director of public works for the city, said the new path would be a good way to promote exercise, especially among children.
"This is a great opportunity to turn a vacant strip of land and turn it into a valuable amenity for the community," he said. "It's just a great program all the way around and a great asset to the community."
Brad Snow, Watco's director of real estate, said the company has helped other areas develop a similar path, but "it's always really good to do it here at home."
Leon and Dorothy Skubitz, longtime Pittsburg residents, left their estate in trust with M&I Wealth Management to create a foundation that would award annual grants. The grants are to be used exclusively for charitable purposes, selected by the trustee, that benefit residents of southeastern Kansas, with strong, if not exclusive, preference given to charitable purposes that benefit residents of Crawford County.
This recent grant is the second provided this year. Earlier this year, the Skubitz Foundation donated $50,000 to the PSU Foundation.
The Skubitz Foundation Grant Selection Committee is comprised of the Advisory Directors of M&I Bank and the Trust Administrator of M&I Wealth Management in Pittsburg. M&I Wealth Management administers the grant process. There is no formal application process for the Leon & Dorothy Skubitz Foundation grants, rather, a committee researches and reviews projects or programs in southeastern Kansas, particularly within Crawford County, which have a great need and meet the qualifications for funding.
PITTSBURG —
