Council hears 60% design update for 9 Mile Creek Corridor renewal; staff plan phased ecological and trail work

City staff and consultants presented a 60% design update on Sept. 8 for the 9 Mile Creek Corridor renewal project, describing natural-resource restoration, trail and bridge changes, park improvements and a funding plan that combines local sales tax, watershed grants and other sources.

Renee Clark, Bloomington Parks and Recreation, and Derek Deichel of the project consultant summarized the technical work and showed design components the public has supported, including habitat restoration, invasive-species removal, targeted tree work, about 1,300 feet of stream-bank stabilization, and a proposal to reintroduce a historical creek meander in a low-lying former mill pond area. The design team proposed replacing a single constrained bridge crossing with an elevated boardwalk so the creek can reconnect to its floodplain and provide better habitat and resilience while maintaining public access.

The project scope also includes replacement or realignment of multiple bridges and stair/retaining elements; replacement of a shelter and restrooms at Moyer Park with an open-air shelter and accessible restrooms; realignment of a nine-hole disc-golf course; and an inclusive, accessible playground design that will be refined with a community focus group. The design team indicated some components (tree work and selective removals) could be bid and performed in winter months ahead of the larger construction effort.

Funding sources staff identified include the city’s half-percent local option sales tax dedicated to voter-approved projects, a $1 million plan amendment approved by 9 Mile Creek Watershed District for stream and creek work, franchise fee allocations for trail work, stormwater utility funds for stormwater-specific items, and possible conservation grants. Clark said the environmental assessment worksheet (EAW) for the project is out for public comment through Oct. 2 and that staff will pursue required permits and a cooperative agreement with the watershed district.

Council members asked about phasing (whether some elements can proceed while permits for other pieces are pending), access for maintenance equipment if the creek shifts over time, provisions to reduce bicycle use in parts of the corridor where the public requested no bikes, and additional seating and rest opportunities for older park users. Staff said some contracts—such as winter tree work—can be separated from the larger permit-driven elements, that the chosen re-meander and boardwalk location is accessible for maintenance, and that wayfinding, signage and design techniques to discourage bicycles in sensitive areas will be further considered. Staff said a 90–100% design presentation and permitting updates are expected later in 2025, with construction to begin in spring 2026 pending permits and funding.