Updated 8-9-23
What is this project?
In 2015, a half-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?
Construction is progressing well on the first phase of work between Old Wire Road to North Street. The vehicle lanes of Mission Blvd. have been shifted to the west to create adequate space for the 12 foot shared use paved trail that is under construction on the east side of Mission Blvd. Coordination with the utility companies for relocation of power poles is underway for this section and future phases. The phase of trail running in front of Root Elementary is planned for construction in the summer of 2024.
When Will it be Completed?
Construction of the first phase between Old Wire Road to North Street is planned to be complete in early 2024. The entire project from Viewpoint Dr. to Maple Street is estimated to be complete in 2025.
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).