City updates on Prairie View and base trails: TAP grants fund most costs; utility relocations delaying construction

Jason, speaking for city engineering, gave updates on two trail projects tied to ODOT's Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP).

Prairie View Trail: Jason said the project cost is about $1.3–$1.4 million, with TAP providing about $1.2 million and the city providing about $300,000. The trail is under construction but crews have paused some work because of utility conflicts; the contractor is working elsewhere on the project while utilities relocate. "The project's currently under construction. We've had some utility conflicts come up during construction, which has caused some delays," Jason said. He told the commission utility companies estimated 60–90 days to relocate the conflicts causing the holdup.

Base Trail: Jason said the base trail estimate is about $1.7 million, with TAP covering roughly $1.4 million and the city the remainder. Plans previously designed to city standards must be updated to meet ODOT requirements now that TAP funding is involved. He described the base trail alignment: Richland and Taylor behind the old drive‑in theater, then down Southgate to Kincaid Road and toward the base entry; the trail will connect to Meadowlake Park and a planned welcome area near the base gate. He said ODOT controls project letting and construction management and that he expects the project could be let in 2026, but exact timing will follow ODOT’s schedule.

Jason said easements are not yet secured for all segments and that the trail surface will be a 10‑foot width similar to other city trails. He emphasized the projects aim to connect existing trail segments and schools; the Prairie View project will link to Prairie View Elementary when Cleveland work is completed.