SCIP Recreational Trail Named Public Works Project of the Year
The American Public Works Association Oklahoma Chapter (APWA-OK) named the City of Midwest City’s SCIP Recreational Trail as the state’s 2018 Project of the Year in the category for projects less than $5 million. The award was presented to Acting Mayor Pat Byrne, Public Works Director Vaughn Sullivan, and Assistant City Engineer Brandon Bundy by Brandon Huxford, APWA-OK, at this week’s City Council meeting.
The SCIP Recreational Trail is the first unpaved trail system in the Oklahoma City metro area that was professionally designed and machine built. The trail is in the Soldier Creek Industrial Park, located off NE 23 between Air Depot Boulevard and Midwest Boulevard. The trail is over three miles of unpaved, natural terrain that winds along Soldier Creek.
Prior to the construction of the trail, there was no multi-purpose off-road trail within the city limits. The new trail has been regularly used by pedestrians and mountain bikers, which is attributed to the input sought from stakeholders at the beginning of the project. In its first year, the trail has hosted three large events including a cross country meet, bike racing and a trail run.
The multi-purpose trail was built on 77 acres that could not be used for development in the industrial park because it was in a floodway. The trail serves the dual purpose of maximizing recreational benefits to the residents while minimizing maintenance. Every aspect of the construction focused on maintenance and environmental sustainability. The natural drainage of the area was maintained and the clearing avoided large, healthy trees. The trail system includes a wildflower habitat and the trailhead utilized a surplus bus shelter as a trail kiosk.
The trail, completed in April 2017, was funded in part through a federal recreational trail grant that required a cash match and in-kind contributions. The City acted as a general contractor for the project. The trailhead was designed by city staff, while Tony Boone Trails in Colorado was the design/build consultant for the specific trail building techniques.
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