Texas House Bill HCR24

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Requesting the lieutenant governor and the speaker of the House of Representatives to direct the appropriate house and senate committees to conduct an interim study regarding the feasibility of integrating the Northeast Texas Trail into the state park system.

Impact

The resolution highlights the potential for the Northeast Texas Trail to revitalize disadvantaged communities along its route. According to a 2014 economic impact assessment, the trail project is considered a low-cost investment, generating jobs, fostering tourism, and enhancing property values. Importantly, access to such outdoor spaces is linked to improved quality of life, contributing positively to the health and welfare of residents in the surrounding areas.

Summary

HCR24 is a concurrent resolution that requests the lieutenant governor and the speaker of the House of Representatives to direct appropriate committees to conduct an interim study about the feasibility of integrating the Northeast Texas Trail into the state park system. The Northeast Texas Trail is a 130-mile-long converted rail corridor that passes through various rural towns and counties, promoting connectivity and accessibility. Since 2012, the Northeast Texas Trail Coalition has been working towards converting this unused land into a comprehensive system of parks and paths that would serve various recreational purposes including pedestrian and equestrian use.

Contention

A key aspect of the resolution is its call for a detailed study to assess the necessary planning and legislative changes needed for the trail's integration into the Texas parks system. This includes examining any administrative rules and local ordinances that may need adjustment. The study aims to identify governance and management issues, as well as the resources required for successful implementation. While the bill advocates for increased opportunities for outdoor recreation and community enhancement, potential contention could arise from decisions on funding, prioritization of resources, and the management of the trail's integration.