Repairs begin on hiking/biking trail in Pierce

The development and management of recreational and park facilities is one of the 12 responsibilities of the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD).

At their October meeting, the LENRD Board voted to develop a contract with Rutjens Construction of Tilden to repair the pedestrian trail between the Willow Creek State Recreation Area (SRA) and the City of Pierce for $17,675.00.  The trail was significantly damaged as a result of the flooding that occurred last spring.

LENRD Projects Manager, Curt Becker, said, “The LENRD applied for Public Assistance funding through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help with the project repairs.  After approval, the board voted to repair the trail as quickly as possible.  Some portions of the trail are already repaired.  If the weather holds, construction work should be completed in November.”

Becker added, “The surface of the trail is a crushed limestone finish.  This allows for a firm, yet comfortable surface for walking, jogging, and bike riding.”

The walking trail around the lake is named after long-time LENRD Board Member, Bill Meyer of Pierce.  The trail wraps around the recreation area and into the city of Pierce, covering approximately 10 miles.

The Willow Creek State Recreation Area is owned by the LENRD, and is managed by the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission.