FAYETTE, Iowa --- The proposed Fayette-Volga River Multi-use Trail is a top grant recipient for the Iowa Transportation Commission, which recently distributed $3 million to projects.

A joint application by the city of Fayette and Upper Iowa University was rewarded with $700,000.

City Clerk Christie Dennis informed the City Council on Monday. She believes having land acquisitions and easements in place was integral to the application's success.

The trail will connect Fayette with the Volga River Recreation Area.

"We have enough funds to start construction of the trail next spring," Dennis said. "We're kind of hoping to take bids in January or February 2013."

Once the construction cost is calculated, Dennis said trail committee members will know whether any additional funding will be needed for the estimated $1.1 million project.

The proposal calls for the trail to begin on flood buyout property north of the Volga River bridge on Main Street. The course will advance north through several acres of hickory trees and savannah on the Jim and Nina Beeghly property.

The 3.5-mile trail continues over hilly terrain northeast through scenic woodlands where wildflowers and native timbers offer scenic views. The route crosses Jade Road, then turns east and north up a steep hill and across other private properties, before linking with an existing trail within the public recreation area.