Lincoln County has completed its Transportation Master Plan, which Avenue Consultants recently presented to the Lincoln County Commissioners in a workshop, Amy Butler, LC County Engineer reported.

“The next step is for the Commissioners to formally accept this plan, which will then be integrated into the Lincoln County Comprehensive Plan,” she said. “This master plan includes important components for active transportation, specifically bicycle and trail systems within the County System.”

The final document is available for review at: (https://maps.avenueconsultants.com/portal/apps/storymaps/stories/a71d877da9134f17ab4df45945496580)>

Butler noted, Public outreach has indicated a strong community desire for trails.

“To effectively address this need, we are actively working on an updated plan.” she said. “Lincoln County currently operates under the Star Valley Trails and Open Space Plan from 2005, which covers the area from north of Alpine to south of Afton.”

Butler continued, “Given the significant growth in Star Valley since then, we believe it’s most effective to evaluate the valley in three distinct districts: Upper Valley, Mid-Valley, and Lower Valley. Due to the scope and detail required for this comprehensive update, we plan to implement it in three phases.”

The engineer noted a phased program in her report. “The first phase will focus on an Alternative Transportation Plan for the Upper Valley. We are pleased to report that the Town of Afton is fully supporting this initiative and has generously contributed funding to the study phase,” she said. “Their commitment is a significant step forward, and we deeply appreciate their partnership in helping to make this project a success. We look forward to collaborating closely with all stakeholders as the project progresses.”

Butler summarized the districts. The Upper Valley district spans from County Road 128 south to County Road 155, encompassing the Town of Afton and community areas like Smoot, Fairview, Osmond, Grover, and Auburn. The goals for the Master Plan in this specific district include identifying feasible trail alignments, developing trail cross-section concepts, providing accurate cost estimates, and prioritizing phasing for future funding and construction. This plan is specifically designed to guide the step-by-step creation of a comprehensive trail system throughout the Upper Valley, effectively connecting schools, communities, and various recreational amenities.

It also seeks to provide access to scenic and more rural areas within the county. This community trail system represents a significant investment and asset, serving not only Afton residents but also visitors, tourists, and the broader Lincoln County region. This project offers unique potential by:

• Providing a safe, reliable, outdoor, non-motorized travel opportunity for users throughout the community.

• Evaluating ADA upgrades and planning for all users to access amenities.

• Safe Routes to Schools

• Offering trail access to scenic areas rich in history and integrative value.

• Helping to promote local businesses, such as restaurants and shopping along the Main Street corridor, and enhancing community development.

• Providing access for all to public schools, libraries, museums, local parks, and other destinations.

• Minimizing and mitigating conflicts with automobiles.

The public is encouraged to participate and provide their input through an online survey available at: (https://www.uppervalleytap.com/)