Explore the B2B Trail: What You Need to Know About the Barton-Bandemer Tunnel Project

An exciting update for the Border to Border (B2B) Trail is coming with the construction of the Barton-Bandemer Pedestrian Tunnel, started the week of March 24, 2025. This vital project, which will improve access between Bandemer Park and Barton Nature Area, will be an essential addition to the trail network. The pedestrian tunnel will also connect the newly completed B2B Trail segment in Barton Nature Area with the existing trails in Bandemer Park, opening up new routes for outdoor enthusiasts.

This project is a collaboration between the City of Ann Arbor, Washtenaw County Parks, and the Huron Waterloo Pathways Initiative (HWPI), and is part of a larger effort to extend the B2B Trail westward to connect even more parks and communities in the area. The construction, scheduled for completion in the fall of 2025, will bring some necessary access restrictions. During the construction period, the gravel parking lot off Huron River Drive and the pedestrian bridge leading to Barton Nature Area will be closed. A detour will be in place around Bandemer Park, and there will be a 48-hour railroad track outage from June 3-4, 2025, closing the vehicle bridge to Bandemer Park. Though construction may cause some temporary delays and noise, these improvements will provide a safer and more enjoyable trail experience once completed.

As a frequent user of the B2B Trail, I can’t wait for these improvements. This spring, I’m challenging myself to walk the full length of the trail from Barton to Parker Mill County Park, and I’m excited to invite you to join me. There’s nothing like spending time outdoors, and the B2B Trail offers an unbeatable combination of scenic beauty and accessible paths for pedestrians and cyclists alike. If you’re up for the challenge, let’s make it a fun adventure! Who’s ready to hit the trail with me this spring? Leave a comment below if you’re in, and let’s share the journey together!

For more information on construction timelines and public access restrictions, check out the City of Ann Arbor's website.