Our team was selected to prepare a feasibility study for a 54-mile, multi-use trail from El Dorado, Arkansas to Ruston, Louisiana. The study area includes two states, three counties/parishes, and eight cities, towns, or villages. Largely rural in character, these counties/parishes have a total population of approximately 108,700 with roughly 44,200 of those living in municipalities.

The project included analysis of the conversion of the former Rock Island Rail corridor to a multi-use trail, including assessments of existing trestle conditions, roadway crossings, drainage and wetlands considerations, ownership, and the location of future trailheads spaced at logical intervals. While approximately ¼ of the corridor is still owned and operated by a short-line rail service, the remainder of the corridor ceased rail operations with the bankruptcy of the Rock Island. Trail options along the corridor include Rail with Trail, Rail to Trail, and equestrian trail combinations.

Regional trail identity as well as opportunities to showcase local culture and heritage were explored. The feasibility study included recommended design treatments of the trail, road crossings, and bridge and drainage infrastructure as well as cost estimates, phasing recommendations, and potential funding sources.