The path would snake through parts of Scott’s Addition, the Diamond and around the Science Museum. The “Boulevard Trail” would add green space to an area that was historically industrial. Project Engineer Kyle Riblet of Timmons Group helped designed the rails-to-trails route.
“First, the overall goal of this trail--the Boulevard Trail--is to take existing rail alignments that are no longer used and convert them into shared-use paths for pedestrians whether it be recreational or commuter.”
Riblet says one segment presents a challenge. They’d have to build a 120-foot long bridge with an elevator over an active CSX railroad line.
“Obviously there’s a lot of coordination that has to go with the railroad.”
Funding would come from a variety of sources, including private donations, the City and the Virginia Department of Transportation. Councilwoman Kim Gray said she looks forward to what the path would do for her district.
“It’s really a great way to get around the city without having to risk life and limb trying to get through traffic if you’re on a bike or walking.”
Climate scientist Jeremy Hoffman lives in the area. He says he’d use the trail to get to his job at the Science Museum.
“Certainly I would use it all the time--being that I live in the neighborhood and choose to ride my bicycle instead of doing things like driving a car.”
The full cost for the project, says Timmons Group won’t be known until the entire feasibility project is completed.
