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The Litchfield City Council approved the purchase of several items on Thursday evening that will improve the Route 66 Hike and Bike Trail at Lake Lou Yaeger.

Among the items approved for purchase were three bicycle repair stations, nine 32-gallon animal-proof trash receptacles, and two commercial grade 6-foot hanging swings. The total cost of the items was approved not to exceed $12,663.78.

The trail, located inside the main park of the Lake Lou Yaeger Recreational Area, has proven to be a popular attraction for park visitors. The goal behind the improvements will be 'to make the trail more attractive to those who use it for fitness and interest others who may wish to use the trail for the enjoyment of nature.' The W. Darrell Kilton Foundation has provided grant money to the city for improvements to the Trail in the amount of $25,000, and the new items will be purchased using funds from this grant.

Lake Superintendent Eric Lamb told the council before they voted that the hope is that the new trash receptacles will keep raccoons from getting into the garbage. The motion was approved unanimously.

The next Litchfield City Council meeting is scheduled for Thursday, September 20, at 6:30 p.m.