Idaho Falls greenbelt to get facelift

The Greenbelt is one of Idaho Falls most prized possessions.

If city council approves a grant agreement with the Idaho Transportation Department Thursday night, renovations for the west side of it could start in a few months.

“It’s just a nice place to come hang out. I almost think it’s therapeutic to come a listen to the water,” Marcy Howell said.

Howell is from Blackfoot but she’s a regular at the Belt.

“Usually come up here and have lunch or I’ll run after work,” said Howell.

She thinks improving the trail system is a good idea.

“I’ve had instances where I’ve almost tripped on some of it. So it would be nice to not have to worry about that as much,” Howell said.

“This is the first section of the trail that was built about 27 years ago, and we’re renovating it,” Director of Parks and Recreation, Greg A. Weitzel said.

The trail will be widened 12 to 14 feet, repaved, and made easier for multipurpose use.

Walls will be added to steep trail areas.

“We’re creating new pedestrian access points where people can safely get across the road. We’re going to be putting down zebra pattern crosswalks in several sections here,” Weitzel said.

He said it’s more than just keeping the greenbelt beauitful.

“Important part of this project is safety,” Weitzel said.

The project is expected to begin in September.

If approved, it will be closed from the fall through winter for renovations.

The city council has approved $865,000 for renovations.

ITD’s grant is $436,000.