Preliminary plans have been developed for the upgrade and improvement of approximately 2.4 miles of the existing trail corridor west of Lake Wilson and the Lake Wilson Trailhead. This effort marks a significant step forward in enhancing the local trail system and improving access and safety for outdoor enthusiasts.
The current goal is to finalize the design and engineering plans by late 2025 or early 2026. A key component of the project includes the proposed replacement of the existing bridge located along this twoplus mile trail segment. The engineering and design work for the new bridge is proceeding independently but is also expected to be completed later this year.
Pending the successful completion of all required plans, specifications, resource assessments, and permits by the end of 2025, the project would move into the construction bidding phase between January and April 2026. If the bidding process proceeds as scheduled, construction could begin in May 2026, with project completion anticipated in late summer or early fall.
In the event of delays in finalizing plans, assessments, or permits, construction would be rescheduled for fall 2026 or early 2027.
In March, the Friends of the Casey Jones State Trail Association made the decision to reallocate funds originally intended for trail expansion east out of Woodstock to instead focus efforts west out of Lake Wilson. In response, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has initiated planning and design work to align with this revised priority.
This year has shown us what can happen when community, vision, and persistence come together. From new trail miles and public support to legislative action and strategic planning, meaningful groundwork has been laid for the future. The Friends of the Casey Jones Trail Association advocates for the development of the Casey Jones State Trail and maintenance of the existing trail, which is owned by the State of Minnesota and managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
The dream of the Friends group is to create a multi-seasonal, multi-use trail stretching diagonally from the southwest corner of Minnesota to the Minnesota River—a trail of over 100 miles. With other trail groups in the region also developing routes, there is tremendous potential for a vast, interconnected system of trails crisscrossing Southwest Minnesota.
