City hears public input on MKT Trail restoration project

Columbia Parks and Recreation listened to residents Wednesday to get their input on the restoration of the MKT Trail corridor.

A portion of the trail was under construction because of the city’s Flat Branch sewer project.

Overall the feedback from the public was positive.

A majority of the proposed plans that were presented Wednesday include additional native trees, flowers, more walking access through green space.

Columbia resident, Shannon Hensley says restoring the MKT Trail will mean more outdoor trips for her family.

“I’ve been concerned about this project from the beginning,” Hensley said. “I think it’s important that we have more green space. As Columbia continues to grow we are seeing more concrete, and we just need more green.”

Columbia Parks and Recreation Development Superintendent Mike Synder told ABC 17 News that he hopes the green space will create more of an experience for trail goers.

An experience that residents also hope will attract more tourists.

The restoration project is expected to cost between $15,000 – $20,000 which the city says is much cheaper because a majority of the work will be done by city employees.