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City hears KZF study recommending Mill Creek connector to link Downtown to Glenwood Gardens trail
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Summary
KZF Design presented a feasibility study recommending a 10–12-foot shared‑use Mill Creek connector to link Downtown Springdale with the Glenwood Gardens–Winton Woods trail; the study identifies a preferred alignment and funding paths, but notes topographic and interjurisdictional hurdles requiring engineering and easement coordination.
Eric Anderson, vice president of KZF Design, told the Springdale City Council on Oct. 15 that his firm’s Mill Creek connector feasibility study identified a preferred alignment and funding strategy to link Downtown Springdale to the Glenwood Gardens–Winton Woods trail.
The study, completed in September, evaluated nine potential alignments and recommended a one‑side shared‑use path 10 to 12 feet wide that would run primarily on the northbound (east) side of Springfield Pike and continue across West Sharon Road, Ballenger and Southland to Sheffield Road. Anderson said the width and layout would allow two‑way travel and provide a buffer between the path and traffic.
“The Mill Creek connector will be a key corridor within the city’s bike and pedestrian network,” Anderson said, adding the preferred alignment minimizes impacts to private property by prioritizing alignments within existing right-of-way or on city property.
The study assessed safety, user experience, accessibility, grading, tree removal, utility relocation and land acquisition risks. Anderson said the Sheffield Road section has the greatest cost and constructability risk because of topography; that segment will likely require retaining walls and corridor widening. He also noted the final leg crosses Glenview Golf Course property and will require coordination and easements with the City of Cincinnati and its recreation commission.
Council members raised questions about crossings at busy interchanges, especially where the path would cross Route 4. Anderson said signal improvements, signage such as rapid‑flashing beacons, or push‑button crossings are typical engineering responses and that the feasibility study intentionally stayed at a high level to identify constraints and costs ahead of detailed design.
Mayor Hawkins and city staff said the study gives the city a basis to pursue grants, including regional-transportation and metro (SORTA) funding, and to pair awarded funds with local matches. Anderson said once grant funding is secured the city can proceed with design, engineering and construction procurement.
Next steps discussed by the council were pursuing appropriate grant programs, coordinating with neighboring jurisdictions where right-of-way or easements are needed, and moving the preferred alignment into preliminary engineering.
