A greenway is a linear corridor of 2,200 acres of open space areas, vegetation, and recreational features. As it relates to Greater Grand Forks, it is the open space between the banks of the river and the flood protection system.
A key function of the Greenway is flood mitigation. The wide open space between the river banks and the flood protection system allow water to pass through with less constraint on the river, less strain on the levees, and less chance of ice damming.
Aside from flood mitigation, the Greenway is an enhancement to the local quality of life providing recreational opportunities and scenic views previously unavailable in the Greater Grand Forks area. In addition, it will allow for restoration and the reestablishment of native riparian prairie and stream bank vegetation.
The initial construction of The Greenway was funded with federal, state and local dollars. In Grand Forks the ongoing operations and maintenance are funded through a monthly fee to every residence and business on the utility bill. Operations and maintenance expenses in East Grand Forks were absorbed into the existing budget.
A wide variety of recreational activities await the Greenway user. Picnic shelters with grills and rest room facilities, shore-bank fishing sites, boat ramps, basketball and volleyball courts, ice-skating and hockey rinks, playground equipment, two golf courses, three disc golf courses and a dog park are just some of the recreation available in the Greenway. These recreational areas are connected by a paved multi use trail system featuring two pedestrian bridges providing seamless transition between the two communities.
The primary trail is made of asphalt. In addition, the option exists for a series of unpaved trails weaving throughout the Greenway, offering a more natural alternative to runners and hikers.
The trail system is located on the wet side of the levee and runs the length of the Greenway, with spur trails offering opportunities to explore other area of the park.
The Greenway is accessible through entrances the flood protection system or up and over trails. Some entry points feature parking lots and restroom facilities. Please refer to the Greenway map for specific locations of access points.
Areas of high use within the Greenway are mowed on a regular basis. However, some areas which feature native grass, wildflowers, and other forms of vegetation to aid in riparian restoration and offer a more natural setting will not be mowed.
The Greenway & Trail Users Advisory Group meets monthly to discuss Greenway and trail system items. Residents of the Greater Grand Forks area are welcome to attend. For more information about this group, click here.
How can I receive Greenway updates on events and activities?
You can register to receive email announcements by submitting a feedback form.
Each year we receive many requests for new facilities or improvements to existing facilities in the Greenway. Many factors go into the decision making process, first and foremost being the role as a floodplain. If you have an idea you would like considered, please complete the Greenway Special Request Form and submit to the address on the form. You may be asked to present an overview of your project idea to the Greenway Technical Committee for consideration. T After reviewing the request the committee will determine whether the project is feasible within the Greenway and if so, which agency will handle the request. That agency will then guide the request through the proper channels of their organization.