Here’s a recap of recent decisions the Lawrence City Commission made that will advance progress on completing the sections of the Lawrence Loop that run northward from Hobbs Park in East Lawrence to Constant Park at 6th and Kentucky.

1. The commission approved funding for design of the 11th Street to Constant Park section of the Loop.
2. The commission approved a 2020 local match for a KDOT grant to construct the 11th-8th Street section. We can look forward to seeing this section completed next year.
3. The commission approved a plan to spend $700,000 in 2021-2022 funding to help construct the 8th Street to Constant Park section of the Loop. $400,000 of this planned funding is contingent on FLAT and other trail advocates raising a dollar-for-dollar match.

FLAT’s Advocacy Team did a great job of mobilizing support for these decisions. Friends sent more than 110 emails to city commissioners, met with them, or spoke at their meetings in favor of progress on completion of these sections of our centerpiece trail. If you were one of the many who took action, thank you! Your effort made a difference.

Chris Tilden, FLAT’s advocacy coordinator and a board member, continues to work to add more voices to our advocacy efforts. If you would be willing to share social media posts, write an email. or take other action to support public funding of trails, please contact Chris at christilden@hotmail.com.