The project will complete gaps in the alternative transportation system between the Dakota County Big Rivers Trail in Lilydale, through Harriet Island Regional Park in Saint Paul to Kaposia Landing Park in South St.
Paul.
The trail will be a multi-use off-road facility.
Once completed,
this project will complete an approximate 15 mile route of off-road trail that runs alongside the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers.
The project connects communities to the river through direct access in Lilydale and Harriet Island Regional Parks in Saint Paul, and Kaposia Landing Park in South Saint Paul.
As part of the Mississippi River Trail, this project will increase connectivity to large portions of the NRRA, especially between this Alternative Transportation Gateway and the Hastings gateway to the south.
It will provide a non-motorized connection between two river based parks and provide expansive views of the working river activity.
It is expected that the trail signage will provide multiple opportunities to recognize and enhance the NRRA visitor's experience and visibility.
The project will complete a gap in the MISS Alternative Transportation System by providing visitors, including those in under-served communities, with non-motorized access to the MISS and along the river while eliminating congestion, emissions, and protecting park resources.
The project is a high priority of the MISS Five Year Alternative Transportation Implementation Plan to complete a seamless and recognizable alternative transportation system in MISS that gets people to the river without a car while protecting park resources.