(MANHATTAN, Kan. – May 25, 2022) — An additional section of Linear Trail will be closed due to ongoing levee construction starting Wednesday, June 1.

The additional section to be closed runs from the Blue River Access Area (US-24 Boat Ramp) north to Casement Road at Hayes Drive. This closure is in addition to the previous closure of Linear Trail and the River Trail System between South Manhattan Avenue and US-24. The River Trails along the Kansas River also remain closed.

“We strongly request that people respect the closure notices for their own safety, as well as that of the construction crews,” said Wyatt Thompson, assistant director of parks and recreation for the City of Manhattan. “I hope our trail users will take this opportunity to explore new parks and trails. Safety along the levee is the highest priority.”

The trails will remain substantially closed until spring 2024 to allow for completion of the Manhattan levee upgrade project. Work on the Manhattan levee system is proceeding according to schedule, with substantial work already begun on earthwork, utility relocations, and relief well installation.

The parking lot and boat ramp at the Blue River Access Area will remain open. The Linear Trail system also remains open from the South Manhattan Avenue trailhead proceeding west. The trailhead parking lot near Casement Road and Hayes Drive also remains open currently, but will close August 1.

Questions regarding the Manhattan levee project and trail closures can be directed to Bill Heatherman at bill.heatherman@cityofmhk.com. Information about alternate biking and walking trails throughout Manhattan can be found at www.cityofmhk.com/bikemap.

More information about the City can be found online at www.cityofmhk.com, or by following the City on Facebook @cityofmanhattan or Twitter @cityofmhk.