A major milestone in connecting east-central Illinois communities is underway as construction begins this month on the next segment of the Kickapoo Rail Trail, a 3.6-mile stretch linking St. Joseph to Ogden.
The Champaign County Forest Preserve District announced the project will mark progress toward completing the 24.5-mile multi-use trail that will ultimately connect Urbana to Kickapoo State Park in Vermilion County.
Initial work includes site preparation along the former rail bed. While construction moves forward, the Forest Preserve District continues coordinating with Union Pacific Railroad to resolve the final crossing in St. Joseph, which officials describe as essential for trail continuity.
Additional segments are scheduled to begin in 2026, including 8.4 miles of trail in Vermilion County and a half-mile section in Urbana near Weaver Park. The Weaver Park Trailhead is expected to reach completion in 2026.
“Connecting the Kickapoo Rail Trail is about more than building a path — it’s about connecting people. This project brings our communities together while providing an accessible, scenic way for residents to stay active and enjoy the outdoors. It’s an investment that truly pays off by improving our region’s health, quality of life, and sense of community,” said Munice Mayor Blake Wells.
The project secured $11.2 million in funding from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity through the Rebuild Illinois Capital Plan. However, construction bids exceeded available grant funds, creating a $1.85 million shortfall.
The grant funding was championed in 2020 by Representative Carol Ammons and the late State Senator Scott Bennett to complete the entire trail and enhance regional connectivity.
To bridge the funding gap, the Forest Preserve Friends Foundation launched a fundraising campaign with an April 1, 2026 deadline. Without sufficient funds, some trail sections may need to be completed after 2026. Community members can contribute at onekrt.org/donate.
Future plans include extending the trail into Danville. Officials expect the completed trail will link communities, expand recreational access, and generate tourism-driven economic growth for rural communities and businesses along the route.
For updates and information on supporting the trail, visit onekrt.org/project-updates.
