County seeks grant funding to revitalize Soo Line Trail

In a move to address the aging infrastructure and deteriorating conditions of the Soo Line Trail, the Morrison County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a grant application to secure funding for a major rehabilitation project during its meeting on Tuesday, July 9. The proposed enhancements aim to breathe new life into this popular recreational asset, ensuring it remains a valuable resource for the community.

The Soo Line Trail, a 37-mile stretch being owned and maintained by Morrison County, has served as a beloved destination for hikers, bikers and outdoor enthusiasts for decades. However, the passage of time has taken its toll, with a deteriorating wooden bridge and approximately 2.2 miles of pavement in poor condition.

The grant application, submitted to the Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission, seeks approximately $1.1 million to fund the replacement of the aging bridge and the resurfacing of the 2.2-mile stretch of the trail. The county is prepared to contribute a $200,000 match, demonstrating its commitment to the project.

The proposed project would involve the installation of a prefabricated bridge structure, designed to meet the county’s specifications and provide a long-lasting solution to the current bridge’s deterioration. Additionally, the resurfacing of the 2.2-mile section would address the pavement issues, creating a smoother and more durable trail surface.

“Part of the issue that we’re talking about is Morrison County property. This is ours. This belongs to Morrison County,” said Commissioner Jeffrey Jelinski. “As far as I’m concerned, it’s like a roadway. We have to maintain the road. If the road is not safe, we need to fix the road. If the bridge isn’t safe, we need to fix the bridge. If there is a grant that is available, we need to apply for the grant.”

The grant application process is expected to be competitive, with the Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission reviewing submissions and making funding decisions in the coming months. If successful, the county plans to begin the project in 2025 after funding would become available in July of that year, with the goal of completing the work within a three-year timeframe.

“Like Commissioner Jelinski said, it’s our bridge,” said Commissioner Mike LeMieur. “I’ve never driven on it, but I hear a lot of people use the trails. I’m too lazy to ride my bike.”

As the Soo Line Trail continues to be a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts, members of the Morrison County Board of Commissioners said they were committed to ensuring its longevity and accessibility. Commissioners said this grant application represents a significant step forward in the county’s efforts to enhance the quality of life for its residents and visitors through the preservation and improvement of its recreational infrastructure.