Bristol, Virginia, October 17, 2025
News Summary
Bristol city leaders are exploring the extension of the Mendota Trail from Interstate 81 to Cumberland Square Park. A feasibility study funded by grants and donations is underway to analyze the impacts of this expansion. The project aims to enhance property values and invigorate local businesses while promoting community health and recreation. Residents are encouraged to engage in the process during an upcoming open house event on October 15, 2025.
Bristol, Virginia city leaders are exploring plans to connect the Mendota Trail with downtown Bristol. A pre-engineering and feasibility study is currently being conducted to evaluate the potential impacts of this extension. The study is funded through a combination of grants and private donations.
The proposed extension of the trail is intended to run from the trailhead at Interstate 81 to Cumberland Square Park in Bristol, Virginia. Currently, the Mendota Trail spans 12.5 miles, starting in Mendota, Virginia, and reaching the edge of Bristol city limits.
Community Development Director Jay Detrick has indicated that this project could bring numerous economic benefits to the local area. The extension is expected to enhance property values and provide support for businesses that are situated along the trail. However, as of now, an exact route for the potential connector has not been established, and not all property owners who might be affected by the project have been contacted.
Local residents have shown interest in the project, with some, like resident Aaron Banks, expressing support for the potential advantages it brings for biking and exercising opportunities within the community. The city is aiming to complete the feasibility study by the end of the year.
Community members are encouraged to engage and provide input on the study as it progresses. To facilitate this, an open house event will be held on October 15, 2025, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Bristol Public Library, allowing residents to share their thoughts about the study.
The study is set to examine various elements relevant to the trail’s development. This includes assessing trail alternatives, determining engineering needs, estimating costs, establishing design standards, addressing road crossing issues, and prioritizing segments for construction. If successful, the completed trail expansion is expected to contribute significantly to economic revitalization and improve health and wellness outcomes for residents in the area.
Key Features of the Mendota Trail Connection
- Location: Bristol, Virginia
- Current Trail Length: 12.5 miles (from Mendota to Bristol limits)
- Proposed Extension Length: From Interstate 81 to Cumberland Square Park
- Funding Sources: Grants and private donations
- Feasibility Study Completion: By the end of the year
- Open House Event: October 15, 2025, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Bristol Public Library
Community Involvement
Community engagement is a priority, especially in gathering input from residents. This open house is a vital opportunity for the public to contribute to the development of the trail.
As the study continues and plans advance, the city of Bristol anticipates that the new trail connection will serve as a significant asset to both the economy and overall community health, fostering an improved lifestyle for its residents.
FAQ
What city is exploring the extension of the Mendota Trail?
Bristol, Virginia.
What is the purpose of the feasibility study?
To assess the potential impacts of extending the Mendota Trail to downtown Bristol.
How is the feasibility study being funded?
The study is funded by grants and private donations.
What is the proposed route for the trail extension?
The proposed extension would run from the trailhead at Interstate 81 to Cumberland Square Park in Bristol, VA.
What is the current length of the Mendota Trail?
The Mendota Trail spans 12.5 miles, starting in Mendota, VA, and extending to the edge of Bristol city limits.
How could the project benefit the local community?
The project aims to increase property values and support businesses along the trail.
What is the timeline for the feasibility study?
The city aims to complete the study by the end of the year.
When is the open house event for public input?
The open house event is scheduled for October 15, 2025, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Bristol Public Library.
What will the study examine?
The study will examine trail alternatives, engineering needs, costs, design standards, road crossing issues, and prioritize segments for construction.
What are the expected outcomes of the completed trail expansion?
A completed trail expansion is expected to boost economic revitalization and improve health and wellness for residents.
Chart: Key Features of the Mendota Trail Connection
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Bristol, Virginia |
| Current Trail Length | 12.5 miles (from Mendota to Bristol limits) |
| Proposed Extension Length | From Interstate 81 to Cumberland Square Park |
| Funding Sources | Grants and private donations |
| Feasibility Study Completion | By the end of the year |
| Open House Event | October 15, 2025, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Bristol Public Library |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Bristol City Council Advances Mendota Trail Connection
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Additional Resources
- WCYB: Bristol VA Feasibility Study
- Wikipedia: Bristol, Virginia
- Herald Courier: Mendota Trail Connection
- Google Search: Mendota Trail Bristol VA
- WCYB: Public Input on Trail Connection
- Google Scholar: Mendota Trail Bristol VA
- WJHL: Mendota Trail Connector
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mendota Trail Bristol VA
- Only In Your State: Mendota Trail Swinging Bridge
- Google News: Mendota Trail Bristol VA
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
