Joplin City Council to act on proposal to lease Grand Falls property to build trail

 

A proposal to lease property from Missouri-American Water to create the Grand Falls Trail Project will come before Joplin City Council when it meets 6 p.m. Monday at City Hall.

The proposal, in addition to a trail, calls for an overlook, restrooms and a parking area.

From the proposal:

Historically, Grand Falls has been a recreational draw for residents and our area communities. It has been listed by the State Historical Society of Missouri as the state’s tallest continuously flowing natural waterfall. 

In August of 2011, voters renewed the Parks and Storm Water ¼ cent Sales Tax, which includes the Grand Falls Trail project. The city is also applying for a State of Missouri Outdoor Recreation grant for the overlook, restrooms and parking area. 

This lease agreement will allow the City of Joplin to provide a new and amazing opportunity for Grand Falls and those who visit. It will provide not only more recreational and educational opportunities for our community, but also provide connectivity to the trail network. 

The proposed project will include a trail head from low water bridge, a one-mile paved trail for pedestrians and bicyclists to safely access Grand Falls, an overlook, restrooms, and parking for visitors. With this lease agreement, the improvements will result in a more sustainable facility that meets public use and accessibility standards.