BLOOMINGTON—State Senator Dave Koehler secured nearly $800,000 in grants from the Illinois Department of Transportation to support the extension of Constitution Trail, which will improve local pedestrian and cyclist safety in Bloomington.

“Expanding Constitution Trail provides our residents with safe and accessible pathways to commute, exercise, and enjoy the outdoors,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “Projects like this improve quality of life, encourage active transportation and foster more connected communities.”

The Constitution Trail extension project will create a 10-foot-wide, multi-use path from Lafayette Street to Hamilton Road. The new section will initially follow parallel to Bunn Street before turning northwest to cross underneath I-55 Business via an existing railway underpass in Southeast Bloomington.

“Improving our trails and paths is a direct advancement in the health and wellbeing of Bloomington,” Koehler added. “This project will positively impact Bloomington residents and visitors for years to come.”

The funding announced is part of a statewide investment in transportation alternatives, including bike and pedestrian trails, streetscape beautification and other infrastructure improvements to promote safe travel for Illinois residents.