Kansas officials say the state will not participate in a federal program that matches local contributions with federal money to build recreation trails.

The decision makes Kansas one of only two states to reject the program, which is designed to encourage construction of bike, walking and ATV paths.

The trails program requires states to spend a specific amount on recreational trails. Florida is the only other state to opt out.

State transportation officials say staying out of the program gives the state more flexibility in how it spends federal money on transportation projects.

Critics say the decision likely means Kansas will have fewer new trails and less maintenance on those that already exist.