Blazing Star Trail expansion moving forward

(ABC 6 News) – It has been a long process, but the state and the city are working together to complete repaving and expanding the Blazing Star Trail in Albert Lea.

This expansion will include a bridge over Albert Lea Lake connecting Myre-Big Island State Park to the existing trail from Hayward.

Currently, the trail runs from the City of Albert Lea’s trail system along Albert Lea Lake to Myre-Big Island State Park, a distance of about 6 miles.

"It’s just a great healthy way to come and enjoy our community and I think with the trail now connected with downtown to create economic impact in both communities. It will be a kind of destination part within our community," said Bob Furland, Albert Lea Recreation manager.

The trail repaving and expansion are funded by the state and federal government, including Legacy Amendment sales tax proceeds.

The multi-phase, multi-year project could take until 2024 to complete.

A public meeting to learn about the project is scheduled for Sept. 20, at 6:30 p.m., at the Edgewater Bay Pavilion.