Recommendations / Infrastructure / Big Idea #3: Develop and Construct New Infrastructure

Big Idea #3: Develop and Construct New Infrastructure

Part of the "THE MONROE CONNECTION" initiative

InfrastructureMonroe-Walton $1,000,000+

Overview

Develop and construct The MC through a series of multi-use trails to connect Monroe’s seven major parks, schools and colleges, cultural centers, and downtown. The recommendation also includes an extended Alcovy Riverfront greenway loop with watercraft launch points to promote family-friendly outdoor events, river access, walking, biking, jogging, tourism, and stronger neighborhood connectivity.

Action plan

Short-term
Determine the best route for multi-use trails and riverfront creekfront trails. Begin contacting landowners along proposed trail and launch locations to request easement approval. Conduct preliminary engineering.
Medium-term
Finalize greenway routes for city council and mayor approval once unanimous easement agreements are obtained. Hire a civil engineering firm to create final building plans per section. Place the greenway project up for public bid after engineering is finalized.
Long-term
Complete construction by section. Build the MC Greenway and Alcovy Riverfront Loop, including launch and retrieval locations for tubing and kayaking. Use signage, trail naming, benches, lighting, public art, bike racks, and connected routes to brand the Monroe Connection and encourage daily recreational use.

Expected impact

Projected Accessibility ExpansionInfrastructure

Tracks improved walking, jogging, biking, and family-friendly access across Monroe through connected trails, safe access points, and riverfront launch locations.

Timeframe: Long-term
Projected Transportation ExpansionInfrastructure

Tracks the total proposed greenway and riverfront trail distance connecting Monroe’s parks, schools, cultural centers, downtown, and neighborhoods.

Timeframe: Long-term
Projected Tourism GrowthEconomic

Tracks whether the Riverfront and Greenway create a tourism draw to the city from all walks of life and foster a connected view of Monroe as an experience rather than just a destination.

Timeframe: Long-term
Projected Community EngagementCommunity

Measures community engagement and health of the connected projects as new homes, businesses, and public works are created along the Riverfront and Greenway.

Timeframe: Long-term
Projected Construction CompletionInfrastructure

Tracks completion of the MC Greenway and Alcovy Riverfront Loop, including multi-use trails, riverfront access, tubing and kayak launch sites, and related amenities.

Timeframe: Long-term
Projected Facility UtilizationCommunity

Measures the number of citizens from all walks of life who utilize connected infrastructure to explore and interact with the full extent of the City of Monroe.

Timeframe: Long-term
Projected Long Term Service ContinuitySustainability

Measures whether the greenway becomes a repeatable branded system that encourages active participation and daily recreational use.

Timeframe: Long-term

Key stakeholders

City of MonroeLocal Property Owners and DevelopersCivil Engineering FirmLocal BusinessesPrivate InvestorsRivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance ProgramGeorgia Transportation Alternatives ProgramGeorgia Recreational Trails ProgramUrban and Community Forestry Program

Estimated budget

Greenway: $8,617,776. Riverfront project: $6,851,244. Total estimated cost of greenway and river improvements: $15,469,020. Total distance of greenway for all projects: 12.72 miles.