SCCTD Celebrates Another Banner Year for Community Investments

In 2025, SCCTD continued to work to expand its MetroBikeLink System. In March, the $4.3 million, 1.1-mile Tecklenburg Trail opened in Belleville, linking West Belleville residents to the broader trail network. The project preserves local forest land with 120 new trees and features a 400-foot bridge over Illinois 161. The Liberty Heights Trail in Fairview Heights – a $1.2 million, 0.75-mile paved path – most recently opened as the first phase of a seven-part expansion from Hwy 161 to The Rec Complex. This scenic corridor with flowering trees and abundant wildlife includes a bench, landscaping and wayfinding and safety enhancements, including five cameras. In 2025, SCCTD also invested $650,000 in communications, safety and wayfinding improvements along the system of trails, including emergency call boxes and trail cameras.

Partnering with Citizens for Modern Transit (CMT) and AARP in St. Louis, SCCTD helped launch “The Story of a Bench” Placemaking Program, installing four red, all-weather benches in Swansea, East St. Louis and Cahokia Heights. Each bench features a community sponsor plaque and a QR code for rider feedback, enhancing comfort and engagement at transit stops.

The latest Transit Stop Transformation Project is underway at MetroBus Stop #13101 in East St. Louis. The design concept has been finalized and upgrades are set to include a modern shelter, additional seating, improved lighting, wayfinding and green space.

With expanded trails, enhanced amenities and a focus on community impact, SCCTD is well-positioned for continued success in 2026.