"This new development is part of the new system of greenways presented in the Miami-Dade County Park and Open Spaces Master Plan and another great example of the implementation of its mission to connect people and parks for life through an inter-connected network of accessible parks, sidewalks and bicycle trails," said Miami-Dade Parks Director Jack Kardys.  "This new trail connecting residential areas of the City of North Miami Beach, City of Miami Gardens unincorporated Miami-Dade County is a model of the new urban park that promotes health and connectivity, while providing a solution to urban congestion."

The improvements consists of a linear park (narrow landscaped strip of land) and a 10-foot wide paved trail designed for shared-use by walkers, in-line skaters, cyclists and other non-motorized users, as well as those using Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) approved motorized devices. The site will also contain two landscaped mini-parks with adult fitness stations; rubberized play climbers for tiny tots; rain shelters with single tables; benches; bicycle racks; and trash receptacles. The two mini parks will be located within a widened area of the South Florida Water Management District right-of-way within the City of Miami Gardens municipal limits.  One will be developed between NW 12 Ave. and NW 11 Ct. along NW 202 Ter., and the other between NW 9 Ave. and NW 7 Ave., along NW 202 St.  The new corridor will also include extensive landscaping, as well as way-finding and regulatory signage.  Construction is expected to be completed by July 2013.

The cost for this project is $2,464,413.  Funding will be provided through the Building Better Communities Bond Program and the Florida Department of Transportation Surface Transportation Program.

 "We are excited about this initiative," said Commissioner Jordan. "It will provide residents of all ages with new opportunities for regular exercise.  It also connects them to their neighbors and adjoining communities, in a way that doesn't require use of a car."

"Greenways like these provide families and children with greater access to recreational activities and parks in their neighborhood, as well as a safe and pleasant way to enjoy the great outdoors together," said Commissioner Heyman. "It gives residents more healthy, convenient and gas-saving options."

For more information about the Snake Creek Trail development project, the public should contact Mark Heinicke of the Miami-Dade Parks Planning and Research Division, at 305-755-7811.

About the Miami-Dade Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department:
Nationally accredited, a three-time winner of the NRPA National Gold Medal Award and winner of the 2009 Florida Governor's Sterling Award for excellence in management and operations, Miami-Dade Parks is the third largest county park system in the United States, consisting of 260 parks and 12,825 acres of land.  It is one of the most unique park and recreation systems in the world.  Made up of more than just playgrounds and athletic fields, it also comprises out-of-school, sports-development, and summer-camp programs; programs for seniors and people with disabilities; educational nature centers and nature preserves; environmental restoration efforts; arts and culture programs and events; the renowned Zoo Miami and the Deering Estate at Cutler; the Crandon Tennis Center, home of the Sony Ericsson Open; golf courses; beaches; marinas; campgrounds; pools; and more.  For information about Miami-Dade Parks call 3-1-1, or visit Miami-Dade Parks.

To request material in accessible format, information on access for persons with disabilities, or sign language interpreter services (7 days in advance), call 305-755-7848.