Photo: Carlos Bezz / Moment / Getty Images
Syracuse residents have the opportunity to share their thoughts on the expansion of the Onondaga Creekwalk trail at a public meeting tonight (May 13) at the Southwest Community Center on South Avenue, starting at 6 p.m. The project aims to add three miles of bike and pedestrian trails, stretching from West Colvin Street to Dorwin Avenue, as part of the third phase of the Creekwalk Improvement Project.
Mayor Ben Walsh announced the public sessions to gather community input on the trail extension. The meetings will include a brief presentation and discussions at mapping stations, where residents can view preliminary route alternatives and review the project schedule. The plan also involves replacing pedestrian bridges and upgrading roadway crossings, with a projected cost of over $2 million.
The Creekwalk currently runs 4.8 miles from the shore of Onondaga Lake through downtown Syracuse to West Colvin Street. Once extended to Dorwin Avenue, the trail will span nearly eight miles, connecting the Southside and Valley neighborhoods. Mayor Walsh emphasized the project's importance, stating, "By expanding this trail network, we are strengthening community connections, promoting active transportation options, and enhancing quality of life for residents" according to a city news release.
A second meeting is scheduled for Thursday (May 15) at the Cecile Community Center. Residents unable to attend can submit their feedback online. For more information, visit the project website.