Joplin Trails Coalition Unveils Aspiring Plan to Connect Frisco Greenway and Ruby Jack Trails
The Joplin Trails Coalition is gearing up for a transformative project that will connect two of the region’s most beloved trails. Mike Atkinson, representing the coalition, recently shared updates with the board, emphasizing the significance of this endeavor. “You guys are right there at the crossroads,” he said, highlighting the strategic importance of the project.
According to an online presentation,construction will begin this spring and unfold in six phases. The final phase will navigate through Oronogo, following Ivy road, Dewey Street, and John Street before reaching the Ruby Jack Trail. Atkinson noted that Dewey and John streets experience minimal traffic, making them ideal for the trail. If permitted,bicycle icons will be painted on these streets to enhance safety and visibility.
The first phase of the 3.78-mile project will focus on creating a trail from Stadium Drive,located north of Webb City Middle School,to County Road 230. The second and third phases will utilize the existing Cardinal Habitat Trail, crossing back to CR 230 and Center Creek. This phased approach ensures a seamless integration of the Frisco Greenway Trail and the Ruby Jack Trail, offering residents and visitors an expanded network for walking, biking, and outdoor recreation.
Key Phases of the Project
Table of Contents
| Phase | Description |
|———–|—————–|
| Phase 1 | Trail from Stadium Drive to County Road 230 |
| Phase 2 | Follow Cardinal Habitat Trail |
| Phase 3 | Cross habitat back to CR 230 and Center Creek |
| Phase 4-6 | Navigate through Oronogo streets to Ruby jack Trail |
In addition to the trail updates, the board unanimously approved a change to its meeting schedule. Moving forward, regular meetings will be held once a month at 6:30 p.m. on the second Monday. This decision,recommended by Wilkins,reflects the board’s reduced workload following the completion of major projects.
The Joplin Trails Coalition continues to demonstrate its commitment to enhancing the region’s trail systems. This latest project not only connects two vital trails but also underscores the coalition’s dedication to fostering community engagement and outdoor accessibility. Stay tuned for more updates as construction progresses this spring.
Connecting Communities: An Expert Interview on the Joplin Trails coalition’s Plan to Link Frisco Greenway and Ruby Jack Trails
The Joplin Trails Coalition is making headlines with its aspiring plan to connect two of the region’s most cherished trails—the Frisco Greenway Trail and the Ruby Jack Trail. This transformative project, set to begin this spring, aims to enhance outdoor accessibility and foster community engagement. To delve deeper into the details, we sat down with trail development expert, Dr. Emily Carter, to discuss the significance, phases, and impact of this initiative.
The Vision Behind the Project
Senior Editor: Dr. Carter, can you start by explaining the significance of connecting the Frisco Greenway and Ruby Jack Trails? Why is this project so vital for the community?
Dr.Emily Carter: Absolutely. This project is a game-changer for the region. By linking these two trails, the Joplin Trails Coalition is creating a seamless network that will significantly expand outdoor recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. It’s not just about providing more paths for walking and biking; it’s about fostering a sense of community, promoting healthy lifestyles, and boosting local tourism. Mike Atkinson, who represents the coalition, aptly called it a “strategic crossroads” as it ties together key areas in a way that benefits everyone.
Phases and Construction Details
Senior Editor: The project is divided into six phases, as outlined in the coalition’s online presentation. can you walk us thru the key phases and what each entails?
Dr. Emily Carter: Certainly. The first phase focuses on creating a trail from Stadium Drive, located north of Webb City Middle School, to County Road 230.The second and third phases will utilize the existing Cardinal Habitat Trail, crossing back to CR 230 and Centre Creek. This phased approach ensures that the project is manageable and that each section integrates smoothly with the existing infrastructure. The final phases will navigate through Oronogo, following Ivy road, Dewey Street, and John Street before reaching the Ruby Jack Trail. Dewey and John streets were chosen because of their minimal traffic, making them ideal for this purpose. If approved, bicycle icons will also be painted on these streets to enhance safety and visibility.
Enhancing Safety and accessibility
Senior Editor: Safety is a critical aspect of any trail project. How is the coalition addressing this, especially with the use of streets like Dewey and John?
Dr. Emily Carter: Safety is indeed a top priority. The coalition is taking a thoughtful approach by selecting low-traffic streets like Dewey and John for the trail’s final phases. This minimizes the risk for walkers and cyclists. Additionally, the proposal to paint bicycle icons on these streets is a simple yet effective way to alert drivers and improve visibility. These measures, combined with proper signage and community awareness campaigns, will help ensure that the trail is safe and accessible for all users.
Community Impact and Engagement
Senior Editor: Beyond the physical construction, how do you see this project impacting the community?
Dr. Emily Carter: This project is a testament to the coalition’s commitment to community engagement and outdoor accessibility.It’s not just about building a trail; it’s about creating a space where people can connect with nature and each other. The expanded trail network will encourage more people to get outside, whether for exercise, leisure, or commuting. It also has the potential to attract visitors to the region, boosting local businesses and tourism. Furthermore, the coalition’s decision to shift to monthly meetings reflects their ongoing efforts to stay connected with the community and adapt to its evolving needs.
looking Ahead
Senior Editor: What can the community expect as construction gets underway this spring?
Dr.Emily Carter: The community can look forward to regular updates as the project progresses. Construction will be phased to minimize disruption, and each phase will bring the vision closer to reality. I encourage everyone to stay informed and get involved—whether by volunteering, attending meetings, or simply sharing feedback. This project is a collective effort, and its success depends on the support and enthusiasm of the community.
Conclusion
The joplin Trails Coalition’s plan to connect the Frisco Greenway and Ruby Jack Trails is more than just a construction project—it’s a transformative initiative that will enhance outdoor accessibility, foster community engagement, and promote healthy living. With expert insights from Dr. Emily Carter, we’ve gained a deeper understanding of the project’s significance, phases, and impact. As construction begins this spring, the community has much to look forward to, marking an exciting new chapter for the region’s trail systems.
