A new section of trail along the Kansas River will officially open May 5 with a ribbon cutting and community walk.

The paved trail runs between Burcham and Constant parks and connects to the Outside for a Better Inside Trail in Sandra J. Shaw Community Health Park. With its completion, it will be possible to walk along the Kansas River on a paved surface from Lawrence Memorial Hospital to City Hall.

The project, totaling $186,600, was paid for in part with a $49,775 grant from the Sunflower Foundation. The 0.64-mile-long stretch is intended to be part of the “Lawrence Loop,” planned to someday circle the city.

The ribbon cutting and walk will start at noon May 5 at Burcham Park, 200 Indiana St.

Those planning to attend are asked to use the access road on West Second Street, north of the Kaw River Water Treatment Plant.