Bike trail extension connecting Fairview Heights, Belleville MetroLink stations is open
A new 3.5-mile paved trail built on an old railway bed now connects the Fairview Heights Metro Link Station to the Memorial Hospital Station in Belleville.
The $1.5 million trail addition extends the MetroBikeLink system to a total of 14 miles from its eastern-most point at Southwestern Illinois College. The extension was opened with a digital dedication on Friday.
“This community amenity furthers the reach of multi-modal recreation in Southwestern Illinois,” said Herb Simmons, chairman of the St. Clair County Transit District Board of Trustees. “It offers access to fun, fitness and some of the finest green spaces in the area – while connecting to our world-class transit system.”
The extension also connects to the Orchard Loop Trail, which connects Eckert’s Orchard with the rest of the trail.
The Metro bike trail follows the old CSX railroad and Schoenberger Creek through the Dutch Hollow area of Belleville and Fairview Heights. Several scenic areas, including the former Winslow Mining Company location, also are visible along its path.
Fairview Heights Mayor Mark Kupsky thanked both Simmons and St. Clair County Board Chairman Mark Kern for supporting the project. He encouraged bikers and joggers to use the path while also practicing the safety guidelines issued to to limit the spread of COVID-19.
“We encourage people to practice social distancing while on their bikes or gathering at the trailhead,” Kupsky said. “Wear masks and other protective gear like helmets. Be safe and enjoy yourselves.”
The trail was originally a train track used from the late 1800s through the early 1900s to transport coal.
The St. Louis and Southeastern Railway stopped at the mining company during their days of operation until being acquired by the Louisville and Nashville Railroad in 1879. Several other mining companies operated on the rail.
This story was originally published May 30, 2020 at 5:00 AM.