Menard County, IL (WAND) – A dedication was held for the two-mile extension of the Sangamon alley Trail into Menard County.

The new segment extends north from Sangamon County.

Terri Treacy, President of Menard County Trails & Greenways, said, “This new extension is an exciting step toward building a broader network of trails throughout Menard County.”

Louis Yockey of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Office of Realty and Capital Planning shared congratulations on behalf of IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie. “IDNR assisted Menard County by providing state funding for planning and engineering, which helped secure Federal Transportation Enhancement Funds to construct this trail.”

Menard County Engineer Corey Dowd could not attend the dedication, but said, “The new extension provides a safe, scenic route for cyclists, pedestrians, and outdoor enthusiasts connecting northern Sangamon County and southern Menard County.”

Springfield Bicycle Club representative Chris Scheufele said, “This 27-mile round-trip trail now offers even more opportunities for our community to explore, connect, and enjoy the natural beauty of our region.”

The trail now spans nearly 13.5 miles from Springfield into Menard County.