Feature Stories
The trail construction project included a section of in-stream restoration…The repaving of the trail will be delayed until that is complete.
Despite a strong desire to have a headline along the lines of “Parkway Open for Tour de Belt,” we’ll have to settle for “Passable.”
Anyone who has been involved with any kind of construction project knows there can be modifications, change orders, and a host of other things that can delay the timely completion of a project. Unfortunately, though everyone’s aim was to have the Parkway project completed in time for the June 7 ride, that’s not the case.
Instead, as Tour de Belt coordinator Doug Knauss explained, “The “Road Closed” barriers will be temporarily removed, construction equipment will be moved off the trail, and whatever steps are necessary to allow the safe passage of Tour de Belt riders through the construction area will be taken.”
According to CAGA’s Scott Shepler, who is overseeing the project for CAGA, “Though there will be the planting of additional trees and shrubs in the fall, most of the environmental work has been successfully completed. However, the trail construction project included a section of in-stream restoration, and some of that work did not meet the plan specifications. This created a permit issue that must be corrected by working in the stream. The repaving of the trail most likely will be delayed until that is complete.” While he is optimistic riders will be on the Parkway sometime this summer, the work will probably not be done in time for the Tour de Belt.
The Parkway will be open for the Tour de Belt, but the specific condition is unknowable. CAGA officials have emphasized that rider safety is and always has been their priority and the Parkway trail conditions on June 7 will allow all safe passage for all.
