Branson adds to planned trail system

The Branson Board of Aldermen approved on final reading an agreement with the Missouri Department of Transportation to split the $200,000 cost to build a three-mile section of a hiking/biking trail. . . .

It is the latest segment in the 25-mile loop through Taney and Stone counties that could be completed in two years. . . .

"I get people in here daily asking for places to ride and when the trail's going to get done and when a particular section is slated to be ready," [Craig Erickson, owner of Downhill Bikes] said. "It's just snow-balled."

In September, a portion of the first Tour of Missouri professional bicycle event will come to Branson. About 120 riders, including 10 national teams and five European teams, will cover 600 miles of routes through several cities, including Springfield.

The European exposure is something Branson has been courting for years, Erickson said.

"The Europeans would expect trails," he said.

All ages cycle these days — "Grandma and Grandpa, too," Erickson said.

The city of Branson initiated a trail plan four years ago, and has set aside $100,000 a year for it.