Trail work starts in Elmer City

Elmer City's "Complete Streets" project that will connect town streets to the Downriver Trail is underway.

Public Works Director Jimmer Tillman said that paving of the 2,300-foot trail will begin as soon as the weather warms.

Elmer City awarded the work to be funded through a $250,000 state Transportation Improvement Board grant to DW Excavating, Inc., of Davenport, Wash.

The winning bidder has shaped the trail that runs along the Lower River Road and is currently laying a gravel underlay before paving can be done.

The bid of $159,726 for construction was awarded in mid-February.

The "Complete Streets" program requires that projects are user-friendly to pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists alike.

It is the third TIB project grant that Elmer City has received.

When the trail is complete, residents will be able to go by sidewalk to the trail and gain access to the 6.5-mile Downriver Trail along the Columbia River via two crosswalks.

Tillman said the town plans to apply for another grant that would allow residents a connector that will be an extension of what is being done now.

The two crosswalks and signage are also part of the current grant.

The project is being promoted locally as a way for residents to develop a healthy walking lifestyle.

The $250,000 grant covers engineering costs as well as construction costs.