JBS Grand Island Breaks Ground on Hike and Bike Trail
JBS USA is providing an update on how its Hometown Strong funds are being invested in Grand Island, Nebraska.
JBS USA previously announced a $3.5MM investment in the community and has since worked closely with local leaders to identify where the funds can best help meet immediate and longer-term community needs. JBS Grand Island’s total commitment has since been increased to $5.25MM through an additional allocation of Hometown Strong funding.
Of that total, JBS USA contributed $500,000 toward the expansion of a hike and bike trail to the JBS Grand Island facility. The existing trail will be expanded eastward by one mile and will be 10-feet wide and constructed of 6-inch thick concrete. In addition to providing a safe, eco-friendly route to work for team members of JBS Grand Island, this project will also extend the path for community exercise and enjoyment.
“We are proud to break ground on this important community resource that will provide a safe route to our facility as well as a recreational area for community members,” said Mathew Trowbridge, JBS Grand Island General Manager. “We hope this extension of the hike and bike trail will serve our team members and neighbors for many years to come.”
JBS Grand Island hosted a groundbreaking for the hike and bike trail on Tues., March 29, including a special appearance from Grand Island Mayor Roger Steele. The trail is anticipated to be completed in July.
“JBS is making a big impact in Grand Island with the Hometown Strong initiative,” Mayor Steele said. “The hike and bike trail is extremely popular with residents in Grand Island, and extending the trail will add safety, connectivity and will be a great addition to the trail system.”
In addition to the hike and bike trail investment, the company has funded additional Hometown Strong projects, including $250,000 in renovations to the Northwest High School auditorium, a $500,000 sponsorship of the Grand Island Senior High School’s Academy of Medical Science Program, $500,000 in expansions to the Eagle Scout Park, $550,000 in contributions to early learning and literacy programs and much more.
The JBS Grand Island beef production facility employs more than 3,600 people with an annual payroll of more than $160 million. The facility supports more than 675 local producers, paying them more than $2.2 billion per year for their livestock.
Hometown Strong is a $100 million initiative that was developed to strengthen the communities where JBS operates. Funds are being directed to the communities where JBS team members live and work in the U.S. and Canada. Hometown Strong is one of the largest community investment programs of its kind.