Rock Island Trail to spur economy in small towns up and down the corridor | Rolla Daily News

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Last December, hundreds attended the dedication of the first 47 miles of the Rock Island Trail, the abandoned rail line that holds recreation and economic opportunities across central Missouri. The Pleasant Hill to Windsor segment connects greater Kansas City to the 240 mile Katy Trail. Ameren will give an additional 144 miles to the State of Missouri in late 2017 after salvage of the rails and ties is completed.

Nearly 100 of the 144 miles are alongside two-lane highways and through towns such as Stover, Versailles, Eldon, Belle and Owensville. The salvaged rail corridor is relatively flat and resembles a dirt road. Improvement to the Katy Trail standard will be as public and private funding is available. The spectacular bridges over the Gasconade, Osage and Maries rivers are good candidates for naming by philanthropists or businesses interested in promoting family-friendly activities, communities, tourism, economic development, health and wellness, or conservation.

Towns created by the Rock Island Railroad initially benefited with economic development and improved quality of life for its citizens. For those towns falling on harder times with the absence of a continued rail boom, a second chance will be provided with the new trails.

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Rock Island Trail to spur economy in small towns up and down the corridor | Rolla Daily News