More Trails for Shakopee Held Up By a Bridge

The proposed Minnesota Valley State Trail between Fort Snelling State Park and Shakopee, including the replacement of the Old Cedar Avenue Bridge, would be unrivaled in the nation if its missing link were filled in ("Old bridge remains city's bane," Feb. 27), begins a letter from Ed Crozier to the Star Tribune today.

The major hangup seems to be the bridge, built in 1920, that is now closed to vehicles, bikers and pedestrians, leaving a gap in the trail system. While there is grant money and other agencies willing to chip in, the city of Bloomington is concerned it won't be enough for maintenance and they don't want to get stuck holding the money bag, per se.

The first 80-mile segment of the Minnesota Valley State Trail was authorized by state law in 1969, according to the Star Tribune, but so far exists mostly between Shakopee and Belle Plaine, with little trail development between Fort Snelling and Eden Prairie.

"Surely, these agencies can find a way to build the critical link in the south-metro hiking and biking system," Crozier, of Burnsville, wrote. "Surely, they can demonstrate a Minnesota willingness and proficiency and get the job done!"

So, what do you think? Now that Shakopee is linked to the metro by a freeway, shouldn't a stellar trail system be next? 

Find the current map of Shakopee trails here and here's a link to current information about the Minnesota Valley State Trail and Recreation Area.