Jackson County is moving forward with plans to close a key gap in its trail system, bringing a statewide pathway one step closer to completion.

County officials say construction could start as early as April to connect the Mike Levine Lakelands Trail with the Grand River Arts Walk in downtown Jackson. Parks director Kyle Lewis says this three-mile extension will help create a nearly continuous route across the county.

The trail will be part of Michigan’s larger Great Lake-to-Lake and Iron Belle Trail systems. A second extension, linking the Falling Waters Trail to Calhoun County, is also in the works but still a few years away.

The county has secured nearly $2.9 million in grant funding, with additional support from private donors, including philanthropist Mike Levine. Officials say residents have made it clear — expanding and maintaining trails is a top priority.