The Unity Trail will be a 5-mile loop along existing walkways in Inver Grove Heights. It will highlight the contributions of Dakota County's diverse community. The project is a partnership of:
- Dakota County Parks
- Inver Hills Community College
- ISD 199
- City of Inver Grove Heights Parks and Recreation
- Dakota County Library
The Unity Trail will honor and recognize the contributions of Indigenous, Black and communities of color. It will also emphasize the connection between racial equity, sustainability and environmental conservation.
The trail will connect the Mississippi River Greenway, libraries, schools and Inver Hills Community College to reach new and underrepresented users.
Funding for this project was provided through a Metropolitan Council grant, the City of Inver Grove Heights, Dakota County and the Dakota County Statewide Health Improvement Partnership.
The project has two parts
Interpretive trail
The project will create a trail that recognizes the contributions and experiences of Indigenous, Black and people of color. This will include seven interpretive points — three on the Mississippi River Greenway as well as points at Inver Hills Community College, Inver Grove Heights Community Center, Simley Island Park and Inver Glen Library. It will also include three bike-lending stations where trail visitors can use bikes free of charge. See project map.
Activities
The project includes activities that highlight themes of the Unity Trail. This includes opportunities for teachers to work together, educational materials and programs and events.
Provide input
If you have any questions about this project, contact Anna
Ferris at anna.ferris@co.dakota.mn.us.
Timeline
September 2022–January 2023: Project initiation & community engagement
February–December 2023: Planning
January 2024–January 2025: Implementation
March–May 2025: Project evaluation