GMRPTC August 2026 Newsletter

In this issue, learn about:
* The addition of the Freeborn County/Waseca County/City of Albert Lea's joint Songbird Trail to the Greater Minnesota Regional System.
* An open application availability for GMRPTC Executive Director

The Songbird Trail Joins the Greater Minnesota Regional System as its 86th Facility!

At the June 2026 meeting, the Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission concluded its review of the Master Plan submitted by Freeborn County for the Songbird Trail. Due to the excellent vision for this paved multi-use trail and a strong partnership between Freeborn and Waseca Counties and the City of Albert Lea, the Commission is pleased to designate the Songbird Trail to the regional system.

From the Master Plan: "The Songbird Trail will connect multiple communities in Freeborn and Waseca Counties with a paved trail for walking and biking that stretches approximately 49.5 miles. The trail will someday connect to the Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail in Waterville and will have immediate connection to the Blazing Star State Trail in Albert Lea. Thus, the Songbird Trail will one day bridge a gap between existing trail assets and serve as an amenity that will attract users from beyond our region."
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Congratulations to the communities who are partnering to make this brand-new trail a success! Construction on the first, non-Legacy funded segments of the trail is expected to begin soon. We look forward to the great experiences and connections this trail will provide!

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Executive Director Position Open for Applications: Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission

The Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission (GMRPTC) is pleased to announce that the position of Executive Director is open for applications. This leadership transition comes as current Executive Director Renee Mattson prepares for retirement in early 2027.

The Executive Director will oversee strategic planning, legislative engagement, program administration, and statewide coordination with local government partners and regional stakeholders. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of outdoor recreation in Greater Minnesota and support the stewardship of some of the state’s most treasured public spaces.

A full position description is attached. The Executive Director is expected to begin in January 2027 to ensure a smooth transition.

Job Description

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The Commission "is created to undertake system planning and provide recommendations to the legislature for grants funded by the parks and trails fund to counties, cities and Tribal governments outside of the seven-county metropolitan area for parks and trails of regional significance"