On Nov. 1, the City of Pierre accepted a $25,000 Health Innovation Improvement grant from the South Dakota Department of Health to design and build a multi-use trail in eastern Pierre.
The estimated four-mile trail will have a dirt surface that can be used for mountain biking or hiking.
Pierre City Administrator Kristi Honeywell says a local user group brought the idea forward.
“The Oahe Wheelman Cycling Club has expressed interest in developing a mountain bike trail in Pierre,” said Honeywell. “They scouted out some potential locations, and this state grant is making the project possible.”
The trail will be located east of Garfield Avenue between Riverside Cemetery and East Elizabeth Street and will be designed to feature different pathways for different skill levels.
According to Honeywell, the area is ideal for a hiking and biking trail because the land is easily accessible but hilly, rough, and challenging to develop for traditional commercial or residential purposes.
“Outdoor recreation is very popular in our community and surrounding area,” said Parks and Recreation Director Bryan Tipton. “This trail adds another layer of recreational opportunity in Pierre.”
Design work will be completed by Trail Arts, a recreational trail company, and the City Parks Department will build and maintain the track.
“If the weather is cooperative, we’ll get started shortly after design work is completed. We hope to open the trail next year,” said Tipton.