Have you taken the newest route to get to Rookwood Commons and Pavilion? With the recently completed portion of the Wasson Way Trail, you can now bike before indulging in a decadent brunch at First Watch or jog to your next spinning class for a pre-class warmup.
The Wasson Way Trail will connect thousands of people that live within one mile of this trail and its connector trails to countless amenities right here at Rookwood Commons and Pavilion. It spans 8 Cincinnati neighborhoods and three municipalities. The Wasson Way Trail is a much safer alternative for bikers and walkers alike, compared to the ever-more-congested streets.
The proposed trail network will transform our region by:
- Increasing mobility and accessibility
- Decreasing CO2 emissions from vehicles
- Saving travel time with reduced rush-hour traffic congestion
- Reducing accidents
- Lowering transportation costs
- Improving individuals’ health and wellness
Over the last few months, we’ve started to see some of that transformation. But, until recently, there wasn’t much use of the trail since the phase 2 construction grand opening ribbon was cut last November. Ohio winter weather and temporary store closures kept area residents from taking advantage of this new pathway.
Now, sunny days and open doors have brought so many of our community members to our shops and restaurants by way of the Wasson Way Trail. We knew the newly installed steps would attract a crowd. But, it’s more than anyone expected! Recent surveys show that the Wasson Way Trail has an average daily use of over 1,500 people! This is 500% higher than what was initially expected for Phases 1 and 2.
Even with large numbers, everyone can walk the path confidently and safely with the help of two yellow lines painted along the trail. These lines indicate a 6-foot space that helps all pedestrians maintain social distancing while on the path.
While we couldn’t be more excited about the area that’s completed, the proposed trail route is still a work in progress. We can’t wait to connect with even more neighborhoods. Additional plans for the trail include:
Little Miami Trail
The non-profit organization plans to connect to this beloved local bike trail, though the route is still to be determined. This connection brings Rookwood Commons & Pavilion to a network of trails that reach all the way to Cleveland! While we don’t imagine anyone traveling that distance to make it to our center for a shopping spree, we’re ready to directly connect with our local residents in the Mariemont area through the pedestrian-friendly trail.
Montgomery Road to Avondale
This stage two initiative will extend the trail west of Montgomery Road to the Uptown area. This addition will not only transport people safely and environmentally friendly to the second largest employment center in the region, it will also bridge the gap of our city’s rivals, University of Cincinnati and Xavier.
Armleder and Lunken Trails
This portion of the trail exits Ault Park near Fairfax. Avid area bike riders will love being connected to another community favorite via The Wasson Way Trail: Lunken Trail.
Cincinnati Connects Urban Loop Trail
The big-picture vision will eventually create a 42-mile loop around the city. The Urban Loop Trail will be made up of four primary trails along with the Wasson Way: the Ohio River West, the Mill Creek Greenway, and Oasis Transportation Corridor/Ohio River Trail.
Soon enough, you and your family can pick up a picnic lunch from your favorite Rookwood restaurant and take it to Ault Park. Another perk? If (or shall we say when) you forget your picnic basket or blanket, you can always pick one up at one of our retailers.
Hit the trails and share your pictures online. But don’t forget your reusable shopping bags! Interested in learning more? Visit the Wasson Way Project website.