MASON CITY – Mason City introduced the latest addition to the $4 million Prairie Rock Trails System with the grand opening of a 240-foot pedestrian bridge and trail over the river that inspired the city’s name.
A ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremony for the Murphy Park Trail and Bridge over the Winnebago River took place at 10 AM on Monday, May 19, at the intersection of 2nd St. NE and N. Ohio Avenue, adjacent to the Muse Norris Park and Softball Complex.
The Winnebago River inspired native son Meredith Willson to name Mason City “River City” in his celebrated musical, “The Music Man.” The river is the site of Mason City’s earliest settlements and remains a hub for outdoor recreation today.
“This stunning addition marks a significant step in establishing North Iowa as the Outdoor Recreation Capital of the Midwest,” said Mayor Bill Schickel in his advance remarks. On that cool, rainy morning, he and local bike riders and other elected officials marked the occasion.
Schickel said a couple who recently relocated from Minnesota described the bridge and trail as “truly a treasure.”
The trail also features a push-button flashing beacon crosswalk over Illinois Avenue, linking the adjacent Scrip Road Waterfront Trail and the NIACC Trail.
Additional features of the Prairie Rock Trails System include the nearly completed centerpiece, the Riverwalk District & Waterfront Plaza, set to open in June, and the Prairie Rock Trails Bike Park, scheduled for initial opening in July.
The Murphy Park land was donated by one of Mason City’s prominent community leaders, the late industrialist and philanthropist David Murphy. The contractor is Peterson Contractors, Inc. with engineering by WHKS.
Funding for these projects is provided through a Destination Iowa Grant from the state and Local Option Sales and Service Tax (LOSST).
