POCATELLO — The city has completed construction on the Monte Vista to Pocatello Creek Pathway, marking the final phase of a decade-long effort to expand Pocatello’s trail network.

Portions of the pathway were closed Dec. 9 to finish the final phase of construction, according to a news release from the city. This phase involved erosion and sediment control improvements to address water runoff from Interstate 15.

The completed project included excavation and backfill, asphalt and concrete paving, installation of retaining walls, storm drainage systems and a rectangular rapid flashing beacon with ADA-accessible ramps on the south side of Monte Vista Drive.

The pathway will operate independently of vehicle traffic, enhancing safety for pedestrians and cyclists. It will also connect to Pocatello’s existing pathway network to improve mobility between residential and commercial areas.

The newly completed pathway, also known as the Outback Trail, is part of a larger trail system totaling more than 20 miles of paved, accessible pathways. The trail runs from the Monte Vista overpass to Pocatello Creek Road and connects the city’s university district to its Highland neighborhood.

The Portneuf Greenway Foundation spearheaded the effort over the past decade to create what board members envision as a greenway triangle along the east side of the city. The organization worked with the Idaho Department of Transportation, which incorporated elements of the trail construction into the Interstate 15 renovation project.

Two local families provided critical support through easements — Jason and Maxine West of West Family Medicine provided a route connecting the fairgrounds and Interstate 15, while Kathy and Mike Seibert of Outback Golf Park provided an easement to help complete the Outback Trail.

The pathway connects with the Farm Bureau Trail and extends to the fairgrounds event center and the Portneuf Wellness Complex, providing a safe off-street route for residents traveling from the Monte Vista neighborhood and hospital area.

Funding for the project was provided by the Local Highway Technical Assistance Council through a Transportation Alternatives Program grant. The city funded the required 7.34 percent match with help from nonprofit partners including the Portneuf Health Trust and the Portneuf Greenway Foundation.

For additional information on city of Pocatello projects, visit projects.pocatello.gov.