ANN ARBOR, MI — A new tunnel pathway years in the making is getting close to completion.

Ann Arbor Parks Manager Josh Landefeld said the city is aiming to open the long-awaited recreational amenity to the public by the end of October.

Crews still are working to put a stone facade on the concrete structure, which now has paved trail approaches on both sides, among other final tasks.

Once open, it will provide a new link in Washtenaw County’s popular Border-to-Border Trail for pedestrians and cyclists. The new tunnel goes under the railroad tracks between Bandemer Park and the Barton Nature Area along the Huron River, where many people previously crossed illegally.

“Do not cross tracks. Fully enforced fines include up to $10,000,” states an orange sign posted at the construction site.

See Full Page