GMRPTC June 2026 Newsletter

In this issue, learn more about:
​*The Grand Opening of the Hummingbird Trail, and
* Registration for the June 16 Forum on Accessible Surfaces.

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​Grand Opening of Hummingbird Trail Brings Excitement to Henderson

Residents of Henderson, Minnesota gathered this past weekend to celebrate the grand opening of the Hummingbird Trail, a new addition to the Greater Minnesota Regional System. The event marked the culmination of years of planning and collaboration, delivering a scenic 10-mile route for hikers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts to enjoy.

The Hummingbird Trail was made possible in part, with a nearly $1.4 million Parks and Trails Legacy grant. Local officials and community members expressed gratitude for the investment, noting how the trail will enhance quality of life and attract yet more visitors to Henderson. The potential for further trail development through the Minnesota River Valley is greatly enhanced by this important future link to the Minnesota State Trail in Belle Plaine and future trail development south to Mankato.

The Hummingbird Trail gives users the opportunity to roam through the Minnesota River Valley observing wildlife and taking in the beautiful bluffs and wetlands. In addition to the beautiful views, the trail provides a safe route and meaningful benefits to public health.

Congratulations on a successful and beautiful trail connection!

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Register for June 16 Forum on Accessible Surfaces!

Firm? Stable? Slip resistant? Excessive running slope? Who said cross-slope? What level? Grass is accessible, right? How do you really know if the surface material you are using on accessible routes, a pedestrian trail, shared use path, within a pedestrian access route, picnic area, or playground really is accessible and compliant? In this session, we will cover the accessibility standards and special considerations to make sure your outdoor surfaces are designed, installed, and maintained to be usable by people with disabilities. Upon completion of this session, learners will be able to:

• Identify advantages and disadvantages of various exterior surfaces for people with disabilities.
• Discuss common issues affecting the accessibility of exterior surfaces, including installation and maintenance issues.
• Utilize performance-based criteria for exterior surfaces to ensure the product will continually comply with the accessibility standards and perform as stated by the manufacturer.

This forum will be held from 11:30AM - 1:00PM on Tuesday, June 16th. Register HERE and receive a link to the online forum.

Presenter Jennifer Skulski has over 30 years of experience spanning parks, recreation, tourism, and municipal government. She has demonstrated her expertise by conducting accessibility assessments for more than 1,500 recreation facilities and 50 national parks. She has also trained thousands of professionals in the inclusion of people with disabilities and published research on best practices for accessibility management. In 2014, Jennifer founded Skulski Consulting to work more closely with public entities on ADA action-planning. 

Register Here

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"