Winchell Trail Repairs Underway!

Repairs on the Winchell Trail in the gorge began September 17th, so those of us who use it for recreation or transportation need to be aware and extra careful. Sections will be closed intermittently as they work to stabilize areas prone to erosion and replace deteriorating and damaged trail surfaces.

The areas of the trail near 24th, 25th, and 42nd Streets are the focus of the project, funded by the Mississippi Watershed Management Organization. Parts of the trail will be completely resurfaced, and erosion work will include repairing or replacing existing retaining walls, and planting native vegetation (hurray!). Added bonus: it sounds like some buckthorn is going to get removed in the process!

Watch for detour signs and workers moving equipment in and out of the area. Once we get some real snow (keep your fingers crossed!) the work will be put on hold and the trail will be closed through the winter. The project is scheduled to be completed in the spring of 2008.

For more details, the Minneapolis Park and Rec Board's website has an information page on the project here.

Photo: http://www.flickr.com/photos/13965410@N06/1749836220/