ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Summer is right around the corner, but tourists and residents may not be able to visit some of Rock Cut State Park’s most popular activities.

Road closed signs are posted throughout the park, where workers will spend the next few months widening roads and adding new bike paths.

Certain bike and hiking paths will be closed in the construction areas.

Horse trails will be shut completely until next year.

“The equestrian area will be closed, which is unfortunate for our equestrian people, because we have a lot of regulars and a lot of people that are traveling through that use our trails, and it’s unfortunate for them,” said Site Superintendent Bradley Brown. “But, in the same respect, I know they’ve with good reason have complained about Hart Road which is our way to get to our equestrian area and they will be very happy when we have a new road there.”

Rock Cut Concessions owner Jim Talkington says the improvements have been in the planning stages for more than a decade.

“I took over 14 years ago and from day one, 14 years ago, they told us there was a road project,” he said. “The bridge is going to get replaced and beside that bridge they are going to put a seperate hiking and bike path beside the bridge. They’re putting in a new bike path through the woods for hiking and biking as well. Plus, they are doubling the size of our parking lot and managing the water drainage out here, because the park is busier than it ever has been.” 

The construction is due to be completed in November.