Trail dedication to take place on Thursday, May 10

SAINT PAUL – A new section of a bicycle and pedestrian trail in Elko New Market will officially open to the public on Thursday, May 10, during a ribbon cutting ceremony with city officials and Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) leadership.

The new trail segment in Pete’s Hill Park connects the park’s main bicycle and hiking path to a scenic overlook on the top of Pete’s Hill, the highest point in Scott County. It replaces a previously unpaved trail that was steep and not handicap accessible. The new path is handicap accessible, and the top of the hill now features native plants, a memorial bench, and educational panels. This trail was made possible in part by a $36,000 grant from the SMSC.

“The new and improved trail offers fantastic views that all of our residents can enjoy, as well as new opportunities for people to learn about the park and our community,” said Elko New Market Mayor Bob Crawford. “I can’t wait to see people enjoy this new feature, and am thankful to the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community for making this project possible.”

WHO:                   SMSC Chairman Charles R. Vig, Elko New Market Mayor Bob Crawford and other city officials

WHAT:                  New Elko Market Trail Dedication

WHEN:                 Thursday, May 10, 5 p.m.

WHERE:               27050 Meadowridge Drive, Elko New Market

(Remarks will take place at the scenic overlook, which is a 3/4 mile walk to the top of a hill. A shuttle will be available.)

“Trails like this benefit the entire region, giving everyone a new opportunity to enjoy time outdoors, stay active, and engage with nature,” said SMSC Chairman Charles R. Vig. “We are happy to have partnered with the city on this new community asset.”

A portion of the SMSC grant also funded the final segment of the trail along Xerxes Avenue that connects Elko New Market and New Prague. This segment was completed in fall 2014. This grant was part of a $366,000 grant package from the SMSC that funded five Scott County trail projects, including trails in New Prague, Prior Lake, Savage, and Shakopee.