Independence to add key trail connections

The KCStar is reporting the Independence, Missouri, will soon make several key trail connections along and across I-70:

It won’t be long before an interstate highway will cease to be an impediment to walkers and cyclists in southern Independence.

Work will begin soon on a trail to connect Waterfall Park, near the Bass Pro Shops store on the west side of Missouri 291/Interstate 470, with an extended Little Blue Trace Trail on the east side of that highway.

Completion could be as soon as this fall, weather permitting.

The connecting trail will allow bikers and walkers to reach the park and stores on the west side of Missouri 291/Interstate 470 from the Eastland Center complex of stores, restaurants and apartments on the east side, largely removing the modern highway grid from the experience. . . .

The connecting trail may be completed before a separate project, being administered by Jackson County, to extend the existing Little Blue Trace Trail about 3.5 miles to the south.