Missouri Rock Island Trail
At MBEF we talk energy. We express concern for our aging infrastructure and how its use will impact our future. Many years ago Ameren Corp. purchased 144 miles of the Rock Island rail line with the intent to use it to transport coal to their Missouri power plants. By owning the railway, Ameren Corp. was cutting down on freight costs, saving consumers money in the long run.
Fast forward to today where times have changed and Missourians demand a more diverse energy portfolio, there is a shift in philosophy. Sections of this railway once slated to bring coal to this state are now being repurposed as a new nature/biking/walking trail.
Working alongside Rock Island Line, Inc., the Missouri Bicycle and Pedestrian Federation, Ameren Corp. and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, the old Rock Island Line railroad will come alive connecting local Missouri communities promoting healthy living and economic development.
The addition of rail banks from Pleasant Hill all the way to to Washington will create this massive trail. Some of the highlights will include scenic vistas, river access and vintage covered bridges.
Moving forward, final elements of the trail use agreement between DNR, Ameren Corp. and the local community will be completed to ensure that this trail is met with the same success and beauty as the Katy Trail.
Please join us in support of this effort.
More Information
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- Rock Island trail conversion advances
- Major Milestone for Second Cross-Missouri Trail
- Missouri’s planned Rock Island Trail gets Federal Boost
- Landowners see benefits of trail development
- News Tribune – Your Opinion: Move forward, together, on Rock Island Trail
- Missouri Bicycle and Pedestrian Federation
- Katy Trail Economic Impact Report
- Vested interest and a dream for future generations