Fort Leonard Wood DPW to upgrade Troop Trail
While primarily utilized by Soldiers conducting maneuvers from the cantonment area to live-fire training ranges, this route also supports local joggers, cyclists and service members engaged in physical readiness training.
“This is a project to improve passageway to each range,” said Adam Shelton, Directorate of Public Works inspector. “This project is for our troops and people who want to use the trail for running and fitness.”
According to David Smith, DPW contracting officer representative, environmental erosion has damaged portions of the trail.
“The culverts have undermining where water has washed out around the culverts and dug into the troop trail and moved pieces of it out of place,” Smith said. “There are potholes and trip hazards that could cause twisted ankles.”
Smith said once the project is finalized, these safety hazards will be fully resolved for all trail users.
“This will all be a thing of the past when this is done,” he said. “It will be as pretty as FLW 1, which was repaved last year.”
Shelton agreed, noting the trail will be restored to optimal, pristine conditions once construction crews complete the final step of resurfacing.
While the project is significant in its scope, Shelton said there shouldn’t be any interruptions to training as the units will have continued access to the ranges.
“Range Control will have a detailed schedule that they will push out to the units,” he said.
The key is to work and communicate with Range Control, Smith said.
“There will be challenges when the machinery is moving around and I’m sure working with Range Control, we will be able to accommodate any special needs that may arise,” Smith added.
Project managers anticipate minimal traffic disruptions for motorists traveling on FLW 1.
“The shoulders on FLW 1 are wide enough the dump trucks can stage on the shoulders and not hinder any traffic,” Smith said. “There may be times when the construction crews will have traffic control in place, but we don’t anticipate any shutdown of roads to traffic.”
The completion timeline remains flexible, as managers navigate the challenges of seasonal Missouri weather and standard construction constraints.
Shelton expressed enthusiasm for providing a safer, more resilient trail for everyone who relies on it.
“I like seeing positive things for our troops so I can’t wait to see the finished product,” he said. “If it makes lives easier for people using it, I am all for it.”
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