Sports Park to Bluebird Meadow Park Trail Alignment

Sports Park to Bluebird Meadow Park Trail Alignment

This project illustrates I&L’s trail capabilities. The St. Charles County Parks Department retained I&L to perform a trail alignment study for the O’Fallon Sports Park to Bluebird Meadow Park Greenway Trail connection. This study was performed in conjunction with planning efforts for the Dardenne Creek Blueway Kayak Trail.

The study evaluated connection options to expand the existing Dardenne Greenway in Bluebird Meadow Park to the O’Fallon Sports Park. This expansion will increase the greenway to a 5-mile-long segment stretching from I-64 to Highway K and connect three existing parks – Barathaven Park, Bluebird Meadow Park, and O’Fallon Sports Park. 

The evaluation identified 4 segments and 1.5 miles of trail as the recommended alignment. Strip map exhibits, quantities, and cost estimates were developed for the trail. The study also identified environmental challenges and opportunities within each segment of the recommended alignment.

As part of the study, I&L met with the USACE to discuss permitting concerns and potential impacts to existing wetlands that were identified. The study found that up to 4 bridges would be needed. However, a cost-effective bridge alternative was identified at Highway K, where the center turn lane could be re-striped to provide a dedicated bike lane at the shoulder.

The Connectivity Study included:

• 1.5 miles of trail
• 3 potential bridges
• 2 on-road segments
• 8 drainage culverts
• boardwalk opportunities
• 2 potential trailhead locations
• potential wetland impacts
• USACE permitting coordination