CONTACT: Tom Farnsworth, Parks and Recreation Director, 605.773.7407
Island View Drive Walking Path Complete
Pierre, S.D. –Three new blocks of waterfront walking path have been added to Pierre’s trail system.
The new section of the trail flanks the south side of Island View Drive and stretches from Chapelle Street to Ree Street. This ten-foot wide path effectively serves as a link within Pierre’s fifty-plus mile multi-use trail system.
“This walking path is a great addition to our trail system and our riverfront property,” said Tom Farnsworth, Pierre Parks and Recreation Director. “It not only beautifies the property along the water, it also enhances walkability and safety in our community.”
Previously, a pedestrian lane was designated on Island View Drive by striping on the roadway. However, there was no physical separation of the path and the roadway.
“We added curb, gutter, and concrete sidewalk as well as additional lighting,” said Farnsworth. “This lighting and separation of the trail and the roadway does a much better job of protecting those who use the path.”
The enhancement of the Island View Drive walking path was one of the City’s remaining projects from the 2011 Missouri River Flood. That event caused severe damage to the entire Island View Drive road surface. After the flood, the City Commission set a goal of not only replacing the Island View Drive walking path, but also improving it.
“This project has been in the works for a number of years. But we have met the goal, and I’m very pleased with the outcome,” said Farnsworth. “Once the weather is more conducive to trail activity, I think our citizens will greatly enjoy it as well.”
Additional enhancements are expected along the Island View Drive path. When the weather warms up, the City intends to add landscaping and possibly park benches.
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