A long-awaited dream for Nebraska’s cycling community is finally taking shape with the unveiling of a recommended route for a bike trail connecting Omaha and Lincoln. This proposed trail, which spans rural Cass County, aims to provide a scenic and safe path for cyclists while minimizing the impact on local landowners. The route, revealed during a public meeting, has garnered mixed reactions from the community, highlighting both excitement and concerns about the project’s future.
Community Reactions and Concerns
The announcement of the recommended route has sparked a variety of responses from the local community. Many cycling enthusiasts are thrilled about the potential for a dedicated trail linking two major cities in Nebraska. Marilyn Tabor, an avid cyclist from Raymond, expressed her excitement, stating, “It’s going to be beautiful.” This sentiment is shared by many who see the trail as a significant enhancement to the state’s recreational infrastructure.
However, not everyone is on board with the proposed route. Some local residents have voiced concerns about the potential disruption to their properties and daily lives. Josh Satterthwaite, who lives near one of the considered routes, criticized the project as a “waste of taxpayer dollars.” These differing opinions underscore the challenges of balancing community interests with the benefits of such a large-scale project.
The Lower Platte South Natural Resources District (NRD) has been proactive in addressing these concerns by holding multiple public meetings to gather input and refine the route. This collaborative approach aims to find a solution that satisfies both the cycling community and local residents.
Route Details and Planning
The recommended route for the bike trail is designed to minimize its impact on existing residences and infrastructure. The proposed path extends the Mo-Pac Trail an additional mile eastward from Wabash, utilizing an abandoned Missouri Pacific Railroad line. From there, it turns northward on a gravel country road before connecting with the Lied Bridge via a short trail.
This route was chosen for its relatively low impact, crossing only nine driveways compared to other options that would have affected more properties. Additionally, it is one of the shortest and least costly routes, making it a practical choice for the project. The NRD’s general manager, Mike Sousek, emphasized that this route was selected to balance cost, safety, and community impact.
The project has received significant financial backing, with the Nebraska Legislature allocating $8.3 million in 2022 to support the construction of the trail. This funding is crucial for bridging the eight-mile gap between the existing segments of the Mo-Pac Trail, ultimately creating a continuous path from Omaha to Lincoln.
Future Prospects and Economic Impact
The successful completion of the bike trail could have far-reaching benefits for the local economy and community well-being. By connecting Omaha and Lincoln, the trail is expected to attract cyclists from across the region, boosting tourism and local businesses. Events like the weekly “Nacho Ride” and the monthly “Pie Ride” have already demonstrated the economic potential of cycling tourism in the area.
Local officials are optimistic about the trail’s impact. Alex DeGarmo, chairman of the Cass County Board, described the project as “low impact” economic development with “high results.” He highlighted the potential for the trail to bring people into small towns, supporting local businesses and fostering a sense of community.
Looking ahead, the NRD plans to continue refining the route based on community feedback and begin construction in late 2025. The project’s success will depend on ongoing collaboration between stakeholders and a commitment to addressing the concerns of local residents. If these challenges can be navigated, the bike trail promises to be a valuable addition to Nebraska’s recreational landscape.
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