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Big-4 Rail Trail Extension
2023 Widening and Improvement Project
The widening and improvement project will repair and widen the existing Rail Trail (from Heritage Trail Park south to Starkey Avenue). Closures will be completed in phases to allow the use of segments of the trail throughout the project:
- Phase I: CR 875 E to Mulberry Street - this section is complete
- Phase II: Mulberry Street to Starkey Avenue - this section is closed and expected to be complete in the fall of 2023
The widening will create a uniform 12’ wide trail with a 2' soft shoulder on each side (for runners).
Completed Projects
- Replacement of Starkey Avenue bridge
- Southern extension and paving of the Big-4 Rail Trail
- Northern extension of the Big-4 Rail Trail
- Phase I of the widening and improvement project
Ongoing Projects
- Phase II of Big-4 Rail Trail widening (souther section of the trail)
- Construction of a new trailhead off Zionsville Road - anticipated to open fall 2023
- What is going on with the Rail Trail?
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In 2019, the Zionsville Town Council approved a parks bond to complete the Rail Trail corridor by extensions south from Eagle Creek to Zionsville Road and north from Heritage Trail Park to 400 S. In 2021, the Parks Department was awarded the Next Level Trails grant for $1.8 million to assist with the active extension projects as well as a southern trailhead facility. With this award, the Department and Park Board had the opportunity to evaluate the condition of the existing Rail Trail corridor and begin plans for replacement and improvement.
- Why is the trail being widened by 2 feet?
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This widening project has long been part of the Town’s plans for many years and is in fact in the 2018-2022 Parks Master Plan. The study was produced by REA with input from Town administration, Town Council, Parks Board, Parks and Recreation Department, and residents. View the Parks Master Plan (2018-2022) here. This widening will improve the user experience and trail safety as more cyclists, runners, strollers, dogs and pedestrians enjoy our regional trail.
- How is this project being communicated?
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We have shared information about this project in the Town and Parks newsletters, in a postcard to all Zionsville residents, and on our website and social media. We have emailed stakeholders directly, including the schools. To stay updated on this project, follow our project website, sign up for our Parks newsletter and follow us on social media.
- Can I access the trail while construction in ongoing?
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The widening project was divided into two phases to allow public access in inactive segments throughout the project (see our project website for information about the phases). Construction barricades and project signage are placed at each entrance to closed sections and are not open to the public.