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4-mile bike path construction under way

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By Richard Wilson, Staff Writer 7:44 PM Tuesday, November 29, 2011

HAMILTON — Construction is under way to build a 4-mile bike path from the north side of the city to Rentschler Forest MetroPark.

The project is aimed at increasing transportation and recreational opportunities. Plans call for the trail to eventually connect with the Great Miami River Recreational Trail in downtown Hamilton.

The $1 million project, awarded to Hamilton-based contractor WG Stang Inc., is being supervised by the Butler County Engineer’s Office, but is being funded by the Hamilton Community Foundation and a $500,000 grant from the Clean Ohio Trails Fund.

The first phase of the project, a 2-mile stretch from Allison Avenue and Canal Road to the Rentscher forest, is expected to be complete by June 2012. The second phase will connect the path along the river to the downtown trail near the Courtyard by Marriott.

“We’re really glad to see construction get under way,” said John Guidugli, HCF president and CEO. “It’s an important amenity for the community to have. It allows people to get out and exercise, but it also make the community more accessible. It’s not unrealistic that people can use it for transportation.”

The project was delayed in part because of a legal battle over property between the city of Hamilton and the Bonham family. The case was ultimately resolved in the city’s favor in 2007 by the Ohio Supreme Court.

The first phase of the project, a 2-mile stretch from Allison Avenue and Canal Road to the Rentscher forest, is expected to be complete by June 2012, said Hans Landefeld, project consultant hired by the community foundation.

“The foundation is to be commended for seeing this project through,” Landefeld said. “They kept interest in the project for at least 10 years. It will be enjoyed by generations to come.”

Until construction is complete on the second phase, which is expected to begin next year, an on-street bike route will be provided to connect the existing trail to the section beginning at Allison Avenue.

Contact this reporter at (513) 696-4542 or rwilson@coxohio.com.

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