The current northern end of the I-275 bike path

Yesterday we did some preliminary scouting with MDOT for a possible extension of the I-275 Bike Path.

This extension would begin at the current north end of the I-275 path at Meadowbrook Road, just south of I-96.  The route would continue north and eventually head east to be within the M-5 corridor.

It would intersect the old Coe Railroad, which should hopefully become Oakland Counties next big rails to trails conversion.  It would also intersect 13 Mile and 14 Mile Roads — both popular east-west road bike routes.

The extension would end at Pontiac Trail.  From here one could continue north on the trails planned for Martin Road before heading west and picking up the Lakes Community Trail.

There are no shortage of challenges for building this trail.  From wetlands to steep rolling hills, it’s going to take some smart design to keep the price tag reasonable, but MDOT is committed to getting it done.