Ann Arbor Reopened Border-to-Border Trail Segment
The trail stretch between Gallup Park and Geddes Dam is open again after being closed for sinkhole repairs.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Hiking
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Ann Arbor officials have reopened a portion of the Border-to-Border Trail that runs between the Gallup Park fishing pond and Geddes Dam. The city previously closed the path indefinitely in September 2026 due to sinkhole concerns.
Why it matters
The trail closure was implemented as a safety precaution after deteriorating stormwater culverts caused soil migration and hazardous voids beneath the path. Officials prioritized restoring access while continuing to monitor site stability.
The city identified sinkholes stemming from aging stormwater infrastructure in July 2026, leading to the temporary indefinite closure of the affected route. Crews currently maintain ongoing interim stabilization measures along the trail.
The players
Ann Arbor Parks Department
This municipal agency manages the public recreational spaces, trails, and parkland maintenance throughout the city of Ann Arbor.
The details
Pedestrians can now access the trail segment, though workers remain on-site to continue interim stabilization efforts. The city is currently assessing long-term options to address the underlying damage caused by the culverts.
Timeline
July 2026: City staff first identified a sinkhole above a culvert.
September 2026: The city closed the trail segment indefinitely.
October 13, 2026: The trail segment officially reopened to the public.
Culture Shift
This reopening reflects the broader shift toward maintaining active transit corridors against the aging of urban infrastructure. As cities manage legacy stormwater systems, the balance between public access and long-term stabilization becomes a central challenge for local park management.
Residents and park visitors can resume using the trail segment between the fishing pond and the dam immediately. However, travelers should remain alert for ongoing maintenance activity and potential localized detours as crews perform stabilization work.
The takeaway
Maintaining urban trails requires constant vigilance regarding hidden infrastructure like underground culverts. Walkers and runners should always heed safety signage when maintenance crews are active near public paths.
Further reading
Learn more about local trail developments in the Hiking section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Mlive.
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Do you trust local government officials to ensure safety when reopening public trails with sinkhole issues?
