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The AP-MPO is conducting a feasibility study of the Rock Island Greenway’s southern terminus inside the metro area.

Rock Island Historical Logo

THE ROCK ISLAND GREENWAY IS A RAIL-to-trail CONVERSION PROJECT THAT BEGAN IN RUSTON, LOUISIANA FOLLOWING THE FORMER CHICAGO, ROCK ISLAND AND PACIFIC (CRIP) RAILWAY COMPANY RAIL LINE FROM EL DORADO, ARKANSAS TO Eunice, LOUISIANA.

The Rock Island Greenway (South) Study determined the feasibility of converting the former Chicago, Rock Island, & Pacific (CRI&P) rail line into a mixed-use path. This path would serve multiple purposes including: public recreation space, connecting residential neighborhoods to business corridors, recreation trails, schools, parks, and historic sites.

AT THIS TIME, THE MPO IS WORKING TO SECURE FUNDING NEEDED TO ADVANCE THE GREENWAY TO THE DESIGN PHASE. THE TRAIL DESIGN PHASE IS THE MOST INVOLVED STAGE WHICH INCLUDES EVERYTHING FROM CONCEPTUAL DESIGN TO CONSTRUCTION BIDDING.

Rock Island Greenway (North) Logo

Study area:

Study Area & Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad Route (green line)

Feasibility Study Document PUBLISHED!

Hot off the digital presses!

The Alexandria-Pineville Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) has published the final report detailing methods and findings of the Rock Island Greenway Feasibility Study on the RAPC website. The report and appendices can be reviewed online at www.rapc.info/transportation. Scan the QR code for a direct link to Rock Island Greenway (south) project webpage.

The first step to developing the Rock Island Greenway (south) inside the metro area, the goals of the high level planning project conducted by the MPO were to catalogue existing conditions along the project corridor, inventory and assess all potential multiuser trail routes, identify a preferred route with input from stakeholders and the public, as well as develop design, phasing and trailhead recommendations to assist with future trail development.

Round 2 - Public Feedback Summary

Feedback from the first round of public engagement conducted by the APMPO in April and May 2022 identified a potentially inactive, but not abandoned, segment of the former Rock Island (CRIP) rail corridor. Data suggested this segment was active in the initial Existing Conditions report, however public comments from the open house in Pineville, Louisiana encouraged the APMPO to revisit this segment from LA 107 (Melrose Street) in Pineville to LA 1204 (Ball Cutoff Road) in the Tioga area. The rail corridor continues beyond LA 1204 towards Dry Prong and Winnfield, Louisiana.

Feasible Rock Island Greenway Corridor & Tioga Heritage Park & Museum Site

Survey period closed 1:00 PM July 22, 2022. Results included in the final report.

Round 1 - Public feedback summary

The APMPO completed the first round of public engagement early May 2022. The Public Feedback Summary analyzed public input compiled from the first round of public engagement to determine the community’s level of support, highlight key areas of concern, and shape the area's vision that will guide greenway development.

existing conditions report

The Existing Conditions report was the first step the Rock Island Greenway (South) Feasibility Study analyzing the local Rock Island (CRI&P) route through the metropolitan planning area, right-of-way ownership and restrictions, status of the CRI&P rail line, and more!

Thanks to everyone who participated in the Rock island feasibility study!

Rock Island Greenway (South) Feasibility Study Timeline

What’s a Greenway?

Greenways are corridors of open space located within linear corridors that are either natural, such as rivers and streams, or manmade, such as abandoned railroad beds and utility corridors. Most typically include trails for recreation and alternative transportation, and passive and active park facilities, including open play fields. Greenways have also been shown to increase the value of adjacent private properties as an amenity to residential and commercial developments.

Greenway Examples

Benefits of Greenways:

Trails and greenways provide a variety of benefits that ultimately affect the sustainability of a region’s economic, environmental, and social health including:

  • Make communities more accessible and livable by securing open space.
  • Provide a recreational facility for walking, running, and biking.
  • Create an alternative transportation option.
  • Boost local economies.
  • Protect the environment.

WE WANT TO SHAPE THE FUTURE GREENWAY WITH YOU.

WHETHER YOU WALK, BIKE, OR NOT We’d love to hear about your experience to help us better understand what matters to you and any concerns and suggestions you may have.

A preferred route or design has not been established and will be determined based on input from the community. Your input will help us refine project goals and develop conceptual designs and potential phasing for the Rock Island Greenway (South).

Lots of ways to Get involved:

Online:

Offline:

  • Community Pop-up Events
  • Public Open House (see engagement schedule)
  • Phone Seriously - it’s easy, and no internet is required! Pass this info along to anyone you know who isn’t online. To leave a general message call (318) 487-5401, ext 34.
  • Write to us! Mail comments and suggestions to the Alexandria-Pineville Metropolitan Transportation Organization, P.O. Box 7586, Alexandria, LA 71306.

ADA Notice:

For special accommodations, contact our ADA Coordinator, Kathy Powell, by phone 318-487-5401 ext. 15 at least 72 hours in advance.