Paving begins on Heritage Trail

Pouring began on the trail’s western-most point near the city’s water treatment plant Thursday, July 8. When completed, the mile-long, eight-foot wide trail will wind through the Thompson Natural History Preserve to the CSC campus.

Blair Brennan, CSC coordinator of physical facilities, said about 30 to 50 yards of highway-grade concrete is being poured each day. He said thunderstorms have slowed construction by about a week, but that contractors are still aiming to have the project completed before classes start in August.

“All of the concrete will be in place by then, but we still may be working on installing retaining walls, park benches and other features that will make the trail a great asset to the community,” Brennan said. “The contractors have done an outstanding job keeping this project on track.”

The trail will be limited to non-motorized vehicles, providing a corridor for hikers, bicyclists and joggers. The college received a $270,569 transportation enhancement grant from the Nebraska Department of Roads to construct the trail.

Brennan said progress also continues to be made on the beautification project between the college’s Math and Science Building and the Student Center.

Numerous trees and shrubs were planted in the area, and more plantings are planned, including some in raised beds, Brennan said.

Not only is the landscaping project improving the looks of the area, but will also provide an instructional tool for science classes such as botany, Brennan said. Funds for that project were received from the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum.