Sherman Wins More Help for Santa Monica Mountains – Final Funds Needed to Complete Backbone Trail

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Brad Sherman secured $800,000 for projects in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in legislation that President Bush signed on Wednesday.

The funds are expected to be used to complete the Backbone Trail, and to improve access in Tarzana for San Fernando Valley residents entering the mountain trail network.

œThe park is a national treasure right here in the Valleys back yard. Sherman said. œImproving the trails will let hikers and other park visitors enjoy the mountains even more.

"Congressman Sherman always remembers the Santa Monica Mountains", said National Park Service Superintendent Woody Smeck. "The congressmans help comes at a great time.

An estimated $200,000 would allow the National Park Service to build the last 1.5 miles of the 60-mile Backbone Trail. Once completed, the trail will be a vital link to more than 480 miles of trails through 80,000 acres of parkland. Another $400,000 would help the National Park Service pay for the last parcels of private land along the Backbone Trail.

In addition, $200,000 is expected to pay for better access to the park by improving trailhead facilities at Marvin Braude Mulholland Gateway Park in Tarzana.

Since he was elected to Congress, Sherman has won over $22 million for projects to preserve the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area.