Rural Path Network Concepts

The program "Rural Path Network Concepts" supports municipalities in North Rhine-Westphalia in developing demand-oriented and future-proof strategies for the development and maintenance of their rural path networks. The goal is a comprehensive inventory, the categorization of existing paths, and the creation of a target concept that includes concrete recommendations for expansion, investment planning, and maintenance. Municipalities receive a grant covering 75% of eligible expenses up to a maximum of €50,000. All work steps are funded, from data collection (digital GIS model, ATKIS data) through participation events with relevant stakeholders to the final documentation in the form of a final report and a detailed GIS dataset. Particular emphasis is placed on involving citizens, agricultural enterprises, forestry, nature conservation, as well as considering ecological and demographic framework conditions.

Interested cities and municipalities must be located wholly or partially within the area covered by the NRW program "Rural Areas 2014–2020" and must integrate the entire municipal area into the path network concept. Eligible expenses include costs for concept development, digital documentation, and moderated participation procedures; value-added tax, legally mandated planning services, and public administration costs are excluded. Selection is made via a ranking system based on rural structural data, field block sizes, and multifunctionality of the path network. Applications can be submitted annually in autumn to the responsible District Government of Arnsberg. Required documents include the completed application form, a project description with financing concept, proof of the area coverage, and the guideline for concept development. This provides municipalities with a solid basis for investment decisions, long-term maintenance, and sustainable development of their rural infrastructure.