Local Government Palmetto Approves Pedestrian Multimodal Trail Plan

PALMETTO -- Palmetto City Commissioners passed a conceptual plan to make 10th avenue the old main street of the south. The Jim and Victoria Morrison design plan attempts to get local residents and visitors out of their car and into their walking shoes. When all phases are finished, one can park at the U.S. 41 and 23rd Street bus depot and use your bike, roller-skates, segway or heel and toe it the full 20 blocks south to the bridge. 

photo by Dennis Maley

The concept includes wandering paths caressing three parks along 10th Avenue. The plan is to have roundabouts for intersections and parking will be located at indiscriminate, yet convenient sections along the route. Antique lamp posts will guide the nighttime strolls, or you will be able to sit on any of the many benches. 

Phase one of the project will run from the bridge north to Fifth Street, and is estimated to cost $1.9 million. Utility wires will be placed underground throughout all phases of the project, and water fountains will be accessible.

The Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) will be supplying half of the needed funds, and the path will be part of its Multimodal Corridor. The hopes are that anyone who wishes to spend an afternoon biking or walking through the historic section of Palmetto, will be able to see the 100 year old homes and shops in a new and more appealing way.