Salem Parkway Multi-Use Path (MUP) Construction Project

Updated July 3, 2024

Earlier this week, we asked our Instagram followers what outdoor amenities they wished Winston-Salem had more of. The results are in – 63% of respondents wish the city had more greenways/trails.

We’ve got good news for you: On Monday, February 5, the Winston-Salem City Council approved a resolution to award a construction contract of $4.8 million to construction company Smith-Rowe, LLC for Phase 1 of the Salem Parkway Multi-Use Path (MUP) construction project.

What to Expect

Phase 1 of the construction project will connect Liberty Steet and the Winston-Salem Strollway, which links downtown to Old Salem, to West Fourth Street. A little over 0.5 miles of trail will be added.

Construction began in July 2024 and is projected to take 12 months to complete. The Cherry Street ramp will be blocked off at certain times of the day for 6 months during the project.

Why it Matters

This will connect the city with more trails and walkways, which is a step in the right direction toward achieving the city’s Downtown Plan connectivity goal.

The Background

Building the Multi-Use Path was done in partnership with the City of Winston-Salem, Creative Corridors, and the NC Department of Transportation (NCDOT). The path was designated as a supplemental project to the Business 40 reconstruction project that took place from 2018-2020.

However, NCDOT experienced financial issues that prevented it from being able to work on the Multi-Use Path and led to the City of Winston-Salem taking over the project.

Looking Ahead

Phase 2 of the project is under design and will extend the path from W Fourth Street to Lockland Avenue, ultimately connecting the Winston-Salem Strollway to Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist. 

Phase 2’s design stage is expected to be completed by 2025 with construction to follow in 2026.