A project that’s been on the to-do list for several years is finally getting the green light. Crews will be replacing a damaged section of Roanoke River Greenway along Bennington. Elm tree roots along the greenway have caused significant damage to the tread, so crews will be removing the trees, pulling up the old greenway tread, and repaving this section of greenway.
Thanks to City funds and a Project Outside grant, the Department can now repair this well-loved section of our greenway system. Renee Powers, Trails and Greenway Coordinator, describes this section of tread as “corduroy” and is happy to finally start this project. “We are excited to have the funds to address an important maintenance priority on Roanoke River Greenway in southeast Roanoke. Projects like this one help us reinvest in our valuable greenway system and ensure it is accessible and enjoyable for decades to come.”
Weather permitting, work for this will begin on Monday, October 4, and a quarter mile of the greenway will be closed until the repairs are complete. While work happens, signs and barricades will be placed on the greenway and traffic will be diverted onto Bennington Street. Attached is a map of the detour. Additionally, the Bennington Trailhead parking lot will be closed and used as a staging area. Greenway users can park at Golden Park, Piedmont Park, or in the Star Trail lot along Riverland Road.
The Department hopes to reopen this section of greenway in early November. However, work such as this is always weather dependent, so stay tuned to our social channels for updates on any delays. Until such time, users are encouraged to use the detour or explore other sections of the greenway system. Click here to access our greenway maps, and click here to sign up for our monthly newsletter for more information about Roanoke Parks and Recreation news, events, and programs.