by Ryan Nix
Little Rock and Hot Springs are about to get a lot closer. Earlier this week, the Federal Lands Access Program (FLAP) awarded an $880,000 grant to Pulaski County to begin construction on the first five miles of the Southwest Trail. The planned 60 miles of paved trail will allow hikers and cyclists a scenic path from Little Rock Central High to Hot Springs National Park. “The Southwest Trail is a joint project between Pulaski, Saline and Garland Counties,” says Pulaski County Judge Barry Hyde. “The bridges we build with the FLAP grant will be the first stake in the ground.”
The bridges Hyde refers to are three planned bridges ranging from 10 to 150 feet, spanning over wetlands and streams near Hilaro Springs. However, before the FLAP grant can be used for construction, it must first be utilized for destruction. “Right now, there’s an old wooden railroad trestle that was abandoned some time ago,” Hyde says. “It’s actually really neat. The old timber fits the environment, but it’s rotted to the point where it’s near collapse. The first step we’ll take is demolishing those.”
The remaining FLAP funds will go toward building the new bridges, which are currently in the design process. “We’ve got to complete the final design, then ARDOT has to approve it. After that we’ll take construction bids,” says Hyde. “It’s a lengthy process. I hope we’ll start them in September, but I’m confident we’ll begin construction at least before the end of the year.”
While $880,000 is a good chunk of change, the FLAP grant is only large enough for the bridges. Hyde and the Pulaski County government are actively seeking grants for the paving, utility work and amenities located on this first trail section, which will run from the Saline-Pulaski County Line to Hilaro Springs. “This section of the trail should be ready within two years,” says Hyde. “As for the other 55 miles, we’ve set a goal for the Southwest Trail’s total completion.”
