Let’s celebrate with some new trail news. Or, more specifically, a new bridge and a new trail. Work has begun on the old Rock Island Railroad trestle over Salt Creek. The wooden deck surface will be replaced by concrete and railing will be added. A trail will connect it to the GPTN bridge further east. While some will miss the unique thrill of “Danger Bridge” renovations will make the west side of the park and the beautiful view of Salt Creek more available to park users and less, er, dangerous with the addition of railing. Read more about it from Nebraska Public Media here.
Photo Credit: Derek Augustine
Next, phase 2 of the Fletcher Landmark Trail is making progress from N. 14th St. to N. 27th St. Phase 3 will include a trail from N. 27th and Fletcher to North Star High School and on to Superior St. There is a nice wetland along part of the new trail which will be an added attraction. The trail is anticipated to be finished in the fall. This trail will connect with the 14th St. Trail and eventually with the Superior St. Trail.
Along Fletcher
In more trail news, the city council has amended the ordinance that spells out what vehicles are allowed on the city’s multi-use trail system. The LJS reports that the amendment “clarifies that mopeds, golf carts, motor vehicles, motorcycles, tractors, off-road vehicles, go-karts, riding lawn mowers, garden tractors, ATVs, snowmobiles and gas-powered bicycles are banned from using the trails. The city already has an ordinance in place that prohibits vehicles and animals (!) from going more than 25 miles an hour on the trails, but Parks and Recreation officials felt more specifics were needed on which vehicles are allowed on trails. The amended ordinance does not restrict the use of electric bicycles on the trails, a point that City Council Chair Sandra Washington pointed out before the council voted.” Now some signage might be a good idea.
As seen along the Murdock Trail
While you’re out there celebrating the trails, have some mulberries. They’re easy to find, just follow the purple stains. Eating mulberries along the trails and roads is one of the rites of spring.