Updated 4-10-23
What is this project?
In 2015, a ½ mile section of shared use paved trail was constructed along the south side of Mission Blvd. from the Mission Heights neighborhood southwest to Viewpoint Drive. This new 1.5 mile trail project will extend the existing trail segment southwest to Maple Street. The project consists of a of shared-use paved trail along the south side of Mission Blvd. in front of Root Elementary School and on across Old Wire and North Street. South of North Street, the trail is proposed to be on the west side of Mission Blvd. to Maple Street to connect into the Historic District and to downtown.
This project will also include an improved on-street bikeway from Mission Blvd. along Rebecca Street to the signalized crossing of College and along Trenton Blvd. to Park Ave. and along Prospect Street to provide safer access to the Razorback Greenway. This part of the project is now complete.
Why is It Important?
With the completion of the Old Wire Cycle Track in 2019 and the Niokaska Creek Trail in mid-2020, this section of Mission Blvd. is the missing gap for connectivity to the historic district, downtown and the Razorback Greenway. This project will provide a comfortable route for people of all ages and all abilities to access many popular destinations.
What is the Current Status?
Crafton Tull is the design engineer for the Mission Blvd. corridor. The plans are complete and the Arkansas Department of Transportation is performing final review for permitting of the plans. Special efforts have been made to coordinate with the property owners along the corridor to ensure the new trail and street upgrades are compatible with their properties.
When Will it be Completed?
Construction of the first phase between Old Wire Road to North Street is planned to begin in early 2023.
How is it Funded?
This project will be constructed by the city in-house trail construction crew will be funded the annual CIP project for trail construction.
View the Final Construction Plans (PDF).