The City of Belton Dedicates Phase V of the Nolan Creek Hike & Bike Trail

John Simcik, P.E., CFM, participated in the Nolan Creek Hike and Bike Trail, Phase V Dedication Ceremony hosted by the City of Belton. KPA Engineers had the honor of working with the City of Belton and TxDOT throughout Phases I-V of this project and are proud to bring the community more pedestrian-safe accessibility throughout the Belton area.

The original Nolan Creek Hike & Bike Trail (Phase I) was opened in June 2006 and spanned 1.11 miles long from Original Trail to Burton’s Crossing. The trail provides access for kayakers and quickly grew in popularity, even receiving the 2006 Texas Municipal League Municipal Excellence Award.

Phase II of the trail features a 70-foot pony truss bridge that connects Harris Community Park to UMHB. This replaced the Burton’s Crossing low water bridge, which has improved drainage and safety on Nolan Creek.

Phase III included the MLK Bridge Project, which incorporated 5-foot-wide sidewalks along both sides of the roadway and a bridge that allows connectivity to Phases I and II of the trail and the Nolan Creek Nature Trail Park.

Phase IV consists of an 8-foot-wide sidewalk along University Drive before transitioning into a 10-foot trail going west on Crusader Way to Loop 121. This phase also included a 10-foot trail adjacent to Sparta Road between Loop 1021 and Tiger Drive at Sparta Elementary, allowing for safer accessibility for students.

Phase V of the Trail begins at Holland Road near IH-35 and connects Phase I through Liberty Park. This 12-foot-wide trail meets all ADA requirements and serves as a vital connection linking South and Central Belton.

Sixteen years and multiple phases later, the 5.17-mile trail is complete and has enhanced recreational opportunities, and has reintroduced the community to the various aspects of Belton’s history.