Federal government selects Springfield for $25M grant

The city of Springfield has been selected for a $24.8 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

The grant, made through the DOT's Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity program, goes toward the construction of greenway trails in west Springfield, according to a news release. A graphic provided by the federal government shows the funding is slated to be used to complete gaps in the Wilson's Creek, Jordan Creek and Trail of Tears trails.

The Springfield project includes the construction of 3.1 miles of greenway trails that connect west-side neighborhoods, with four pedestrian bridges, traffic calming and green infrastructure, Americans with Disabilities Act-accessible sidewalks and dedicated bike paths, as well as the removal of at-grade crossings and abandoned culverts.

"Improvements aim to connect historically marginalized neighborhoods and communities through a comprehensive trail network," a DOT grant document reads. "Trail connections will remove physical barriers to mobility, increase systemwide connectivity and increase accessibility for nonmotorized travelers."

Completing gaps in trail systems is part of the city's Forward SGF comprehensive plan, according to past reporting.

“City staff analyzed and prioritized critical gaps in the greenway system based on past community engagement and to target resources in historically impoverished neighborhoods,” Mayor Ken McClure said in a separate news release. “The project is intended to connect these severed trails and provide a fully connected trail system from west-side neighborhoods to natural greenspace, regional parks, economic opportunities, downtown Springfield and beyond.”