H.B. No. 4230 establishes a new hike and bike trail network in Texas, designated as the Bicentennial Trail, by amending Chapter 31 of the Natural Resources Code. The bill introduces Subchapter J, which defines a "hike and bike trail" as one exclusively for pedestrians and bicyclists. The Texas Land Office is tasked with coordinating the establishment of this trail network, which aims to connect significant locations such as the Alamo and the State Capitol, as well as various springs, to promote outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship. The Land Office is required to ensure the trail is established by January 1, 2036, and may enter into memoranda of understanding with various entities to facilitate the trail's development and maintenance.

Additionally, the bill specifies that real property necessary for the trail cannot be acquired through eminent domain, ensuring that the establishment of the trail respects property rights. The Parks and Wildlife Department is designated to maintain any real property acquired for the trail. The provisions of this new subchapter will expire on September 1, 2037, but any memoranda of understanding established under this section will remain valid. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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