Bloomington, Indiana – Trail users in Bloomington are seeing meaningful progress on two important projects aimed at improving safety, access, and connectivity for pedestrians and cyclists. The City of Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department has officially reopened the Rail Trail crossing at South Rogers Street, unveiling a redesigned layout that improves visibility and shortens the time it takes to cross the busy roadway. At the same time, work on the long-anticipated northern extension of the B-Line Trail is nearing completion, bringing the city closer to a more connected trail network.
The newly reopened Rail Trail crossing marks a significant change from its previous design. The former diagonal crossing has been reconstructed so that trail users now cross South Rogers Street at a right angle to traffic, just south of West Baywood Drive. This adjustment allows people on foot, bikes, and mobility devices to move across the street more directly, reducing exposure to traffic and improving sightlines for both drivers and trail users approaching the intersection.
City officials say the redesign prioritizes safety and accessibility, especially for families, commuters, and recreational users who rely on the Rail Trail year-round. In addition to the crossing realignment, the trail has been widened and newly paved on both sides of South Rogers Street, creating a smoother and more comfortable experience for users traveling through the area.
The improvements were approved in September by the Board of Park Commissioners, which authorized a $212,280 contract with Milestone Contractors to complete the work. The project was planned in coordination with the Monroe County Highway Department, which is responsible for installing Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons at the crossing. These beacons are designed to alert drivers when pedestrians or cyclists are crossing, further enhancing safety at the intersection.
Although the trail crossing itself is now open, several elements of the project are still underway. The flashing beacons have not yet been activated, and crews will also complete re-striping of the crossing, install a new streetlight, and finish turf restoration and stabilization around the site. City officials expect these remaining tasks to be completed in early 2026.
Meanwhile, progress continues on another major trail initiative just north of downtown. The City of Bloomington Engineering Department is overseeing the B-Line Connection Project, which aims to link the current northern end of the B-Line Trail at Adams Street with the multi-use path on the 17th Street I-69 overpass. Once finished, the connection will improve access between neighborhoods and provide a safer route for people traveling by foot or bicycle.
Construction of a multi-use path along West Fountain Drive and North Crescent Road was completed in 2024, laying the groundwork for the final connection. More recently, Milestone Contractors completed a new 0.1-mile segment of the B-Line Trail that links this path directly to the existing trailhead at North Adams Street. This new section is now open for use.
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With the addition of this segment, the B-Line Trail now stretches 3.2 miles, offering expanded opportunities for recreation, commuting, and outdoor activity. While most of the work is finished, a few final touches remain. Tree planting and the activation of new light poles along the extension are scheduled for completion in early 2026.
City leaders say both projects reflect Bloomington’s continued investment in trail infrastructure that supports safety, sustainability, and quality of life. Residents and visitors are encouraged to explore the updated trail areas while remaining mindful of ongoing construction features that will be finalized in the coming months.
For the latest updates on trail projects and park improvements, residents can follow the Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department on Facebook or contact the department directly at 812-349-3700.
