The St. James R-1 School District continues to make progress on the Tiger Trail Sidewalk Project, a safety-focused improvement made possible through a MoDOT TAP grant awarded in 2024.
Dr. April Williams submitted the grant application in April 2024, and the project was officially selected for federal funding in August of that year. Since that time, the district has worked closely with engineers and followed all required federal guidelines to move the project forward. Projects funded through federal grants require multiple steps and approvals, and the district has successfully met each requirement to remain in compliance.
The project has now reached an exciting milestone: the bidding phase. Contractors are currently reviewing the project, with bids scheduled to be opened on April 28. Following that process, a contractor will be selected, and construction is set to begin later this summer.
The Tiger Trail sidewalk will connect existing sidewalks at the elementary school to the multi-purpose football field. This addition is designed to improve safety and accessibility for students, staff, and visitors.
In addition to providing a safer route for foot traffic during school events, the sidewalk will serve student-athletes by offering a designated space for conditioning without the need to run on roadways. Community members will also benefit from improved access between parking areas and the field for games, activities, and other events.
This project reflects the district’s continued commitment to safety, accessibility, and creating spaces that serve both students and the broader community.