The Department of Public Works presented a status update on the Fall Line Trail and described funding, design, public engagement and next steps for the city’s segments of the regional shared-use path.

Deputy Director Dyronna Moore Clark told the committee the Fall Line Trail will be a dedicated, separated bike and pedestrian facility connecting Ashland to Petersburg; the city’s alignments are designed to generate economic benefits. Clark said secured funding includes $3.8 million for Segment 6b (Bridal Park), which the presentation listed as under construction and expected to be completed by 2026 and reported “under budget.” Clark said Segment 5ar (Kanawha Plaza) has secured approximately $4.6 million from Sports Backers and the state trails office and that design is complete and awaiting construction. Clark said Manchester Bridge (Segment 4e) is fully funded and that Commerce Road segments (4D/1R/4C) are in 30% design.

Clark summarized a funding strategy for unfunded segments that includes applying to federal and state grant programs (SMART SCALE, Transportation Alternatives, CMAQ, CVTA regional funds and others), leveraging development and CIP funds, and coordinating with regional partners.

Public engagement plans were discussed: Clark said staff produced a Fall Line Trail public engagement plan and intends charrette-style public engagement beginning in early 2026 for certain segments. Clark also said a pre-tree-preservation guide has been prepared and that staff are exploring connector spurs to parks such as Goodes Creek.

Committee members praised the regional collaboration and staff’s efforts to pursue non-city funding sources. Clark said the city projects an overall economic impact tied to completion of the 14 segments, describing large projected figures in the presentation; staff attributed the estimates to the city’s economic modeling and planning work. Work on the South Side alignments and right-of-way acquisition for Hermitage Road (Segment 6a) were among the priorities staff highlighted for next steps.

The presentation will inform subsequent design, right-of-way and funding steps as the city pursues construction of remaining segments.