SCCTD to open Orchard Loop Trail  

The St. Clair County Transit District (SCCTD) is nearing completion of the first phase of the Orchard Loop Trail.  The contractor, DMS Contracting based in Mascoutah, IL, is in the final phase of construction.   This 3 mile segment is slated to be open by late 2018 barring any weather issues and will connect the MetroBikeLink with Eckert’s Orchard.

The 10’ asphalt paved trail will parallel farm roads and wind through the beautiful Eckert Orchard lands. The trail will utilize existing Belle Valley School trails and will cross IL Route 158/177 with a push-button, activated flashing beacon for pedestrian safety.  The trail connects back into the MetroBikeLink through the Fox Valley Subdivision.  As part of the project partnership, a dedicated parking area will be provided in the northwest corner of the Eckert Orchard parking lot for trail users.

Future phases will connect the Spy Glass and Orchard Subdivision (via a bridge over Green Mount Road) and the Plum Hill Subdivision to Brookhill Subdivision, completing the 8 mile loop back to the MetroBikeLink.

“The opening of the Orchard Loop Trail will be a great addition to our trails to transit system with a connection to one of our sought after destinations, Eckert’s Orchard.   We know that each addition will only enhance the opportunities for our residents and visitors to get a first-hand view of all of the amazing sights in St. Clair County through walking, biking and transit,” said Chairman of St. Clair County Transit District Board Richie Meile.