North Kentucky News

COVINGTON, Ky. - Devou Park's Backcountry Trails in Covington will be extended by roughly 3 miles this year, making it the longest urban trail network in the region and one of the top five in terms of length. The project will be undertaken by Dirt Artisans Trail Building Company, a long-time builder in the area. Ben Oldiges, Covington Parks and Recreation Manager, expressed his excitement about the expansion, saying, "It's fantastic, and we're fortunate to have them doing the trails."

Dirt Artisans' founder and owner, Chad Irey, has a history with Devou Park, having spearheaded the effort to build its trails in the early 2000s. Reflecting on his involvement, Irey said, "The Devou Backcountry Trail Project was a catalyst for my professional trail endeavors. After 12 years and 350 miles of trail building experience, I'm excited to be back at Devou to complete the last phase of this incredible project."

The contract for the trail expansion, valued at $147,446, will be fully funded by outside sources. The Devou Park Advisory Committee (DPAC) will contribute $52,000, while the Northern Kentucky-based R.C. Durr Foundation will provide $98,000. The Cincinnati Off-Road Alliance (CORA), an organization that advocates for off-road trails and connected trail systems, played a key role in securing these funds. Oldiges acknowledged the dedication of CORA and its members, stating, "They helped write the grant for the expanded trails, and they do the maintenance on the existing trails. They practically run the trails for us."

The 3-mile expansion will include various new trails and extensions, as envisioned by CORA and City Parks & Rec officials. Lee Ransdell, a member of CORA, highlighted some of the upcoming additions, including an Eastside Entrance Connector, an expansion of the John Volz Trails, improved access to Battery Bates, and a new trail for cyclists on the west side. Ransdell emphasized the positive impact of these trails on the community, saying, "Mountain bike trails are a proven amenity that communities use for economic development - both for tourism and for talent attraction and retention."

The trail system at Devou Park is already highly popular, with cyclists, hikers, and runners making frequent use of it. A 2018 economic impact study found that the trail system had a $1.8 million impact on the local economy. Ransdell believes that expanding the trails will bring more visitors to the park and benefit the local communities.

Construction on the trail expansion is set to begin this year and will be completed by the end of the year. Oldiges emphasized the importance of safety during the construction process, urging park visitors to stay off the trails while they are under construction.

The addition of 3 miles to the Devou Park trail system will not only make it the longest urban trail network in the region but also provide a boost to the local economy and offer new recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.