Great Parks Starts Construction on Final Phase of Columbia Connector Trail

(Note to editors: Map available at GreatParks.org)

Great Parks has started construction on the third and final phase of the Columbia Connector Trail, which will link Columbia Township and Mariemont to the Little Miami Scenic Trail along the banks of the Little Miami State and National Scenic River. The 0.7-mile final phase of the Columbia Connector will also become a critical link in the regional Cincinnati Riding or Walking Network (CROWN), and connect to the partially completed Mariemont Connector, Murray Path and Wasson Way.

“This phase of the Columbia Connector will become a vital community resource along the river, while providing a safe transportation route separated from vehicular traffic in a very busy  area,” said Todd Palmeter, Great Parks CEO. “With this new link to the regional trails network, we continue to address the public’s top priority for Great Parks - build more trails.”

Phase 3 of the Columbia Connector will start at the terminus of phases 1 & 2, where Walton Creek empties into the river (see map). It will continue over the creek, behind and through the commercial district, cross U.S. 50/Wooster Pike near Mariemont High School, and end at Pocahontas Avenue. When complete, the full length of the Columbia Connector will continue 1.1 miles from Pocahontas Avenue to the intersection of U.S. 50/Wooster Pike and Newtown Road, where it connects with the Little Miami Scenic Trail.

Trail users will be able to access many area businesses, Mariemont High School and the Mariemont Branch Library, and connect with multiple Metro stops nearby.

The Columbia Connector adds to the 94 miles of trails already available from Great Parks. It also complements Great Parks’ nearby recreational offerings in the Little Miami Scenic Corridor, including Avoca Trailhead, Bass Island and the Little Miami Golf Center.

The project is estimated to be completed in spring 2028.

The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is leading the design of the project with funds from the Eastern Corridor Project. Great Parks has secured nearly $2.5 million in construction funding, including nearly $1.7 million in federal funding, $338,660 from the Clean Ohio Trails Fund, $100,000 from the State of Ohio Capital Improvements Fund and a $300,000 contribution from the Cincinnati Riding or Walking Network (CROWN) capital campaign. Great Parks will work with ODOT, Columbia Township and Mariemont to identify additional public and private funding sources.