Sign of Progress
This old crossing sign is a relic of a decade-long project to convert the old BNSF rail line east of Andover to an all-purpose activity trail. AARTI’s mission is trail advocacy, development, and caretaking. The currencies to fulfill that mission are time and money.
Your Time
Our all-volunteer organization is run by a handful of people. We could use a couple of handfuls!
One of the easiest ways to help is to join us on the 2nd Saturday monthly for trail maintenance. We usually work 2 – 3 hours trimming vegetation with hand tools. It’s light work, and we’d love to have you. If you or someone you know is in search of volunteer service hours, we’d love to have your help. Click here to tell us more about your group, how many, what date, etc.
On the 3rd Wednesday, you can attend our monthly meeting and learn more about trail operations, issues, and events.
Follow us on Facebook for notices of maintenance days and meetings. We’re building an e-mail list. Click on the button below and provide your e-mail address.
Your Money
Money goes a long way in helping support all aspects of our mission.
Our small but energetic, all-volunteer group brought the Redbud Trail to life. Working with the city of Andover, AARTI was instrumental in helping to secure $1.7 million in alternative transportation grant funding, turning the old BNSF rail line into a vibrant and valuable community asset.
AARTI contributes countless hours of labor and in-kind donations of equipment that originally cleared the trail and, today, helps maintain it. Your tax-deductible donations help purchase trail maintenance equipment, crushed limestone, repairs vandalism, rents dump trailers for hauling, and pays to sharpen chainsaws.
From Dream to Dream Come True
Ten years ago, trail extension to Augusta was a dream. Today it’s becoming a reality thanks to a $3.29 million transportation alternative grant, the largest grant ever in the state of Kansas! This grant will help fund the bridge crossing Highway 54/400. A second bridge across the Whitewater River will need to be funded and there’s a vast amount of clearing and trail bed building to complete the trail to Augusta.
“The outdoors is a big part of my quality of life. As a decades-long runner and cyclist, The Redbud Trail is a readily accessible, safe way to get out for fun and fitness. Because I use it often, it made sense to take an active role in helping to grow and maintain the trail. Come join us!”
Kim Austin, President of AARTI