How FLRT Began
In May of 2013, long-time River Trail user Kevin Shaw sent a letter to the then-Mayor of Lansing, Virg Bernero. Kevin expressed his appreciation for the great regional asset that is the Lansing River Trail, and sent thanks to all who make it safe, accessible, and clean. 
To his surprise, after receiving the letter, the Mayor's office invited him in for a meeting. At this point, Kevin wondered what he had possibly gotten himself into, but he agreed to meet.

On this fated day, Kevin was asked to consider mobilizing a group of like-minded people who love and benefit from the trail, and would be interested in advocating for its future uses. After a couple more meetings with the Playmaker's Foundation and the City of Lansing Parks & Rec Director Brett Kaschinske, Friends of the Lansing River Trail was born. 

Later on, as the River Trail expanded and FLRT's reach broadened to the entire tri-county area, Friends of the Lansing Regional Trails was adopted as the official name of the nonprofit. 

Growth of the Lansing River Trail
The Lansing River Trail began as a 2.5-mile section in 1975, and has grown to over 30 miles through neighboring communities such as East Lansing and Delhi Township, with plans to connect to Mason, Meridian Township, and Delta Township.