Des Moines is undergoing an unusually high number of trail closures and construction this summer, resulting in a "painful" period for outdoor enthusiasts, says city parks planner Colby Fangman.
Why it matters: The city's extensive trails link people across the metro, and closures can cause major disruption, especially in the summertime.
- But they're also necessary to help bring the next generation of smoother, safer trails.
State of play: There are several reasons for the "extraordinary" year of construction, Fangman says.
- Des Moines allocated $1 million in ARPA funding for trails that must be used by 2026.
- 3+ years of drought as well as recent severe storms damaged pavement and needs to be replaced.