The proposed trail alignment noted by the double lines around the pond and connecting to the Kewash Trail and then north to the Kirkwood Washington Regional Center . Image courtesy of Steve Anderson

An application for Transportation Alternative Program, or TAP, funds for a trail project to the Kirkwood Washington Regional Center was approved by the Washington County Board of Supervisors at their meeting Tuesday. Director of Washington County Conservation, Steve Anderson explained it would include paving part of the Kewash Trail and having a trail extended near Willow Pond out to the Kirkwood Washington Regional Center. The request was not for financial support. Washington City Administrator Brent Hinson explained there was a change from the original design, which will go through a 30 to 40-foot strip of the county’s farm.

Washington Mayor Sandra Johnson added this trail will improve safety for pedestrians who are currently walking on Lexington Boulevard.

The total project cost is estimated to be between $1.2 and $1.3 million, with 80% of it funded with federal money. Hinson added the City of Washington has designated $60,000 for the project and Anderson noted they’ll be asking the same of the Conservation Board. The group may also seek a Washington County Riverboat Foundation grant to help fund the project.