MSU collaborates on East Main Connector for campus, community

Morehead State University now offers a new way for students on campus to access the city of Morehead and its amenities easily.

MSU, along with the City of Morehead, the Morehead-Rowan County Tourism Commission, and Morehead Trail Town Inc., recently completed the East Main Connector project, which will enhance connectivity and safety in the Morehead area for campus residents and visitors.

Developed as a direct outcome of the Morehead–Rowan County Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan, the connector extends from East Main Street and crosses state, University, and city property. It will serve as a critical link between Morehead State University, Rodburn Hollow Park, nearby housing developments, and the broader hiking and cycling trail network.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13, at Morehead State's Academic-Athletic Complex to commemorate the project's completion.

Joy Brown (Class of 1999), executive director of Morehead-Rowan County Tourism, noted that this project, which began in 2019, underscores the community's longstanding goal of creating safe, accessible, and inviting routes for walking, biking, and recreation.

"Although development was delayed due to the pandemic and the time required to secure grant funding, the project's completion represents a significant step forward for the region," Brown said.

The benefits of the East Main Connector include:

• Safer and more direct routes for cyclists, pedestrians, and motorists.
• Connecting neighborhoods on East Main Street to recreational spaces.
• Enhanced access to campus and downtown amenities, supporting both residents and visitors.
• Encouraging healthy, outdoor lifestyles and promoting Morehead's reputation as a Trail Town destination.
• Brown added, "Ultimately, the East Main Connector is more than a roadway improvement — it's an investment in community connectivity, recreation, and quality of life for the citizens of Morehead and Rowan County."

To learn more about the town that Morehead State University students call home, contact Joy Brown at joy@moreheadtourism.com, 606-780-4342 or go to www.visitmorehead.com.

Photo: Joy Brown, executive director of Morehead-Rowan County Tourism, was joined by representatives from Morehead State and the City of Morehead for a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new East Main Connector project. 

Photos by Eli Loiacono, an MSU Bachelor of Fine Arts candidate from Burnside.