A $200,000 grant from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department will fund a trail expansion from San Gabriel Park toward the Katy Crossing subdivision, according to the city of Georgetown.

The grant was awarded in early June as part of a $3.46 million state program to enhance recreational projects throughout Texas.

Construction of the nearly half-mile concrete trail expansion, which will extend along the San Gabriel River, is set to begin in spring 2018. The project will include bridges, fencing, signage and a drinking fountain, according to the city.

A state grant will fund a nearly half-mile concrete trail expansion from San Gabriel Park along the San Gabriel River to the Katy Crossing subdivision.[/caption]

Georgetown officials announced in March the groundbreaking of the first phase of a series of San Gabriel Park improvements, including a new playground and restoration of the nearby spring channel and vegetation. Other updates will include parking, roadway, utility and drainage improvements; the realignment of the Morrow Street and Chamber Way intersection; added restrooms and pavilions; and other items.

The first phase of improvements will cost about $2.5 million, the funding for which was approved by voters in a 2008 bond election, according to the city.

Work on the first phase is expected to be complete by early 2018.

San Gabriel Park will remain open while improvements are made.