By Isabella Zarate
Spring is upon us, meaning warm, sunny days are near. After this year’s brutal winter season, many find themselves longing for some quality time outside, and it just so happens that the Kickapoo Rail Trail (KRT) provides the community just that.
The KRT has been a unique part of the community since the summer of 2017, offering the public the chance to get out and enjoy nature all while being active.
The 24.5-mile trail that, when completed, will follow the former CSX (Conrail prior to CSX) railroad from East Urbana to Kickapoo State Park outside of Danville has been and continues to be made possible thanks to the generosity of various community groups, volunteers, donors, and KRT supporters.
In lieu of the dedicated supporters, the Champaign County Forest Preserve and Vermilion County Conservation District will be hosting a celebration as a way to commemorate all of the hard work and accomplishments. A “KRT Celebration” will take place on Sunday, April 24th from 1-4 p.m.
The event will begin at one in the Village of Oakwood, centered along the KRT. Until 3 p.m. there will be booths hosted by community groups and organizations local to Vermillion and Champaign County. While visiting the booths and enjoying the trail, the public can also stop and listen to some live music which will be provided by Logan Allen Music. And for those who may want a bite to eat, Obie’s Arctic Chill will be open with a variety of tasty treats available for purchase.
Around 3 p.m. participants will begin to make the three mile trek down the trail to the KRT Trestle Bridge, which is located near the Vermillion County Fairgrounds. People are free to walk, bike, or run along the trail leading to the bridge. They may also drive and park at the KRT parking lot located west of the bridge of US Route 150.
At 3:30 p.m. there will be a dedication and celebration event at the Trestle Bridge, and the event will conclude around 4.
The event is free, and open to the public. Plus, it is a great opportunity to get you, your family, and friends out of the house and enjoy nature and the community.
KRT hopes the celebration encourages people to have a good time and continue to support the trail on its journey to completion.
In the case of rain, the event will be rescheduled for May 1st.
