Construction is underway on the third and final phase of the Columbia Connector Trail, a project that will create a key link between Columbia Township, Mariemont and the Little Miami Scenic Trail along the Little Miami State and National Scenic River.
The 0.7-mile segment will serve as part of the Cincinnati Riding or Walking Network, known as CROWN, and connect with the partially completed Mariemont Connector, Murray Path and Wasson Way, according to a community announcement.
“This phase of the Columbia Connector will become a vital community resource along the river, while providing a safe transportation route separated from vehicular traffic in a very busy area,” said Todd Palmeter, CEO of Great Parks.
Palmeter said the new connection reflects
one of the public’s top priorities for the park district.
“With this new link to the regional trails network, we continue to address the public’s top priority for Great Parks — build more trails,” Palmeter said.
The final phase will begin where the first two phases end near the point where Walton Creek flows into the Little Miami River. The route will cross the creek, travel behind and through the commercial district, cross U.S. 50/Wooster Pike near Mariemont High School and end at Pocahontas Avenue.
Once the full Columbia Connector is finished, the trail will extend 1.1 miles from Pocahontas Avenue to the intersection of U.S. 50/Wooster Pike and Newtown Road, providing a connection to the Little Miami Scenic Trail.
Trail users will be able to reach area businesses, Mariemont High School, the Mariemont Branch Library and several nearby Metro stops.
The project will add to the 94 miles of trails maintained by Great Parks and complement nearby recreational destinations, including Avoca Trailhead, Bass Island and the Little Miami Golf Center. It's expected to be completed in spring 2028.
The Ohio Department of Transportation is leading design work through funding from the Eastern Corridor Project, while Great Parks has secured nearly $2.5 million for construction from federal, state and regional sources.
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This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Final phase of Columbia Connector Trail underway
