Design and field work is happening now to help determine how many of the areas can be constructed in 2024-25.
The initial concept drawings for potential trail upgrades used aerial imagery to show the proposed trail alignments. This method is not as accurate as a topographic survey, which are currently underway. Preliminary staking was also recently done at each proposed trail segment to clarify how trail alignment might look in person.
The preliminary staking and topographic surveys will help develop final designs and better identify where adjustments to trail alignment might be necessary.
The design team is working with MRPB Forestry and Environmental staff to review all the proposed concepts and preliminary staking. These experts in forestry and environmental stewardship are helping identify areas where adjustments to trail alignment can be made to protect habitat and wildlife, and expand native habitat areas.
The project team recently met with Friends of Lake Hiawatha regarding Area I: New pedestrian-only bridge over Minnehaha Creek. Adjustments will be made to the trail and bridge location to preserve more of the existing vegetation and expand naturalized areas along the creek corridor. Construction activity at the proposed pedestrian bridge will be modified to avoid disturbing nearby owl nesting habitat.
Construction drawings are scheduled to be complete in the next few months and construction is expected to begin in summer/fall 2024 and finish in 2025. Any revisions to the proposed trail improvements will be posted on the Nokomis-Hiawatha Trail Improvements project page before work begins.