The Crystal Bridges Trail Opens
July 17, 2009 – 9:09 am
BENTONVILLE, Ark., July 17, 2009 – The Crystal Bridges Trail opened to the public today during a ribbon cutting ceremony along the trail near Compton Gardens. This mile and a half segment of the trail just north of the Downtown Bentonville Square is the result of a collaboration between the Bentonville/Bella Vista Trailblazer’s Association, Compton Gardens, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and the City of Bentonville. The design team for the trail included Bob Norwood, Trailblazers; Scott Eccleston, Crystal Bridges; and Ron Troutman, Boulder Construction. “Unique aspects of the Crystal Bridges Trail are the forest canopy and tranquil venues that incorporate the beautiful rock work,” said Eccleston. “The native woodlands and lush foliage create a cathedral like experience for visitors.”
Now part of Bentonville’s trail system, the multi-use pedestrian bike trail ambles along the western edge of the museum grounds and continues north with links to the North Bentonville trail and eventually the Bella Vista trails. “We are excited about this addition to the city’s trail system. It creates an important connection between the Square and neighborhoods to the north of downtown and to the Museum,” said David Wright, Bentonville Parks & Recreation Manager.
Midpoint along the trail, an observation deck overlooking the museum site will give the community an opportunity to view the construction progress. “The observation deck is a way we can share the Museum’s progress with the general public. We feel the communities’ excitement for its completion and hope the lookout will inform and pique curiosity,” said Sandy Edwards, Associate Director, Crystal Bridges.
The Crystal Bridges Trail is open daily from 7 am to 11 pm.
