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Columbia Parks and Recreation is seeking community input regarding proposed replacement of Bridge #9 on the MKT Trail. Bridge #9 is located near mile marker 7.0 northeast of the access connecting the MKT Trail to the Mizzou Rec Trail/Hinkson Creek Trail.
In February 2023, a systematic engineering survey was conducted on each of the nine original MKT railway bridges (constructed in 1899). The report concluded that all surveyed bridges support bicycle and pedestrian traffic with varying weight restrictions limiting or prohibiting heavier maintenance and emergency vehicles. Additionally, decaying timber piers under Bridge #9 are a contributing factor to an accumulation of woody debris resulting in recurring flooding of adjacent land - including A.L. Gustin Golf Course.
Preliminary engineering plans for replacing Bridge #9 include a 105-foot single-span prefabricated structure designed in accordance with the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) specifications. Design will include an HS-20 load rating to accommodate heavier maintenance and emergency service vehicles. The proposed construction project is expected to begin in late November 2026 with completion near the end of March 2027 (weather dependent). This project was identified for funding by the 2021 Park Sales Tax ballot. Estimated cost for construction is $550,000.
REVISED MAY 11, 2026: TRAIL CLOSURE/DETOURS: During construction, the MKT Trail will be closed on the north and south sides of MKT bridge #9. MizzouRec Trail between the MKT Trail and Mick Deaver Dr./Old Route K will remain open during construction to allow for travel to and from downtown Columbia. Additional intermittent trail closures are expected due to construction traffic.
Join us for an open house style Interested Parties meeting on Thursday, April 30, from 4:30-6:30 pm, at the Columbia Parks and Recreation Office, Gentry Building, #1 S. 7th Street.
City staff will provide presentations to the Parks and Recreation Commission on May 21, 6:30 p.m. at the ARC and the Bicycle and Pedestrian Commission on May 20th, City Hall, 7:00 p.m. followed by a report to City Council (date TBD). Following a public hearing (date TBD) City Council will evaluate whether to proceed with the construction project.
Columbia Parks and Recreation is seeking community input regarding proposed replacement of Bridge #9 on the MKT Trail. Bridge #9 is located near mile marker 7.0 northeast of the access connecting the MKT Trail to the Mizzou Rec Trail/Hinkson Creek Trail.
In February 2023, a systematic engineering survey was conducted on each of the nine original MKT railway bridges (constructed in 1899). The report concluded that all surveyed bridges support bicycle and pedestrian traffic with varying weight restrictions limiting or prohibiting heavier maintenance and emergency vehicles. Additionally, decaying timber piers under Bridge #9 are a contributing factor to an accumulation of woody debris resulting in recurring flooding of adjacent land - including A.L. Gustin Golf Course.
Preliminary engineering plans for replacing Bridge #9 include a 105-foot single-span prefabricated structure designed in accordance with the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) specifications. Design will include an HS-20 load rating to accommodate heavier maintenance and emergency service vehicles. The proposed construction project is expected to begin in late November 2026 with completion near the end of March 2027 (weather dependent). This project was identified for funding by the 2021 Park Sales Tax ballot. Estimated cost for construction is $550,000.
REVISED MAY 11, 2026: TRAIL CLOSURE/DETOURS: During construction, the MKT Trail will be closed on the north and south sides of MKT bridge #9. MizzouRec Trail between the MKT Trail and Mick Deaver Dr./Old Route K will remain open during construction to allow for travel to and from downtown Columbia. Additional intermittent trail closures are expected due to construction traffic.
Join us for an open house style Interested Parties meeting on Thursday, April 30, from 4:30-6:30 pm, at the Columbia Parks and Recreation Office, Gentry Building, #1 S. 7th Street.
City staff will provide presentations to the Parks and Recreation Commission on May 21, 6:30 p.m. at the ARC and the Bicycle and Pedestrian Commission on May 20th, City Hall, 7:00 p.m. followed by a report to City Council (date TBD). Following a public hearing (date TBD) City Council will evaluate whether to proceed with the construction project.
