Joplin Secures Grant for New City Trail Project
The city will build a new trail connecting several parks following a $500,000 federal grant award.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Hiking
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Joplin received a $500,000 grant from the Land and Water Conservation Fund to support a new trail project. The city will provide an equal amount in matching funds to complete the $1 million development.
Why it matters
The project aims to improve safety and convenience for pedestrians and bicyclists traveling to the MOmentum Bike Park. The new infrastructure provides a direct link between major local recreation areas.
The planned two-thirds-of-a-mile trail will feature a 12-foot width and a new pedestrian bridge over Joplin Creek. City officials are funding the matching $500,000 portion through the Parks and Stormwater Sales Tax.
The players
Missouri State Parks
This agency serves as the administrator for the Land and Water Conservation Fund grants within the state.
MOmentum Bike Park
This facility is a major cycling destination in Joplin expected to see over 100,000 visitors in its first year.
The details
The path will span two-thirds of a mile, starting near the low-water bridge west of Murphy Boulevard and North Main Street. It follows Joplin Creek to connect Landreth Park, Dover Park, and MOmentum Bike Park with new signage and bridge infrastructure.
Timeline
2026: The MOmentum Bike Park hosted the UCI Pump Track World Championships.
2028: The new trail project is scheduled for completion.
Culture Shift
This project aligns with the national trend of prioritizing non-motorized infrastructure to improve connectivity between urban green spaces. The development capitalizes on the growing popularity of specialized recreational facilities like bike parks.
Residents can anticipate safer commutes for walking and cycling between Landreth Park, Dover Park, and the bike park once construction concludes. The project creates a dedicated path that separates non-motorized traffic from local roadway congestion.
The takeaway
This $1 million investment underscores the city's commitment to enhancing recreational connectivity through federal and local tax funding. Residents can look forward to a new, accessible pedestrian link that integrates major community parks.
What happens next
Construction on the trail is expected to begin soon, with a scheduled completion date set for 2028.
Further reading
Learn more about local trails and outdoor recreation at Joplin Hiking.
Live Poll
Do you support using local tax dollars to fund new recreational trails in your community?
