The city of Owensville has been awarded a $363,369 Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grant to develop the Rock Island Trail from Route Y to the western city limit.

The project schedule outlines approximate, and key dates in 2025, for engineering, construction and the bidding process.

Funding will be made available Oct. 1 and solicitation for professional engineering services is scheduled for Dec. 1.

In January 2026, an engineering contract should be approved.

One year later in January 2027, preliminary and right-of-way plans are to be submitted, if applicable. plans, specifications and estimate submissions will follow which are slated to be ready by April with approval in June.

Advertisement for letting of bids will take place in July and bid opening is scheduled in August. The required construction contract award is expected to be completed Sept. 1.

The plan will extend the Rock Island Trail segment through Owensville from the junction with Route Y west to the western edge of the city limits on 28 west of MFA.

The motion to enter and execute the agreement was made during the second Board of Aldermen meeting of September by Ward 2 Alderman Denise Bohl, seconded by Board President and Ward 1 Alderman Dr. Cathy Lahmeyer.  And, a third reading was requested by Ward 1 Alderman Dan Breeden. The motion received full approval by the board. Ward 2 Alderman Matt Kramme was absent.