What’s New?
Since the inception of this website in 2017 there have been a number of new projects completed on the GM&O Railroad Heritage Trail.
Mileposts
The first step was the reinstallation of mileposts 631 and 632, along with milepost 0 at Millstadt Junction. These are exact reproductions of the originals, made possible thanks to the foresight of a local resident who “rescued” MP 631 from being scrapped. He allowed us to use it as a pattern for the reproductions, which were manufactured by General Machine of Freeburg, IL.
In 2025, MP 630 was installed after completion of the trail from Cherry St. South.
Whistle Posts
Reproduction whistle posts were also installed for the northbound and southbound Rueck Road crossing, as well as the southbound Locust Street crossing. The pattern for these was based on an original whistle post discovered by a trail supporter, still partially standing near the northbound Centerville Avenue/South Metter crossing. This original post has been restored and returned to its original location, along with the others, in the section south of Cherry Street.
Corporation Line Sign
A reproduction Corporation Line sign was installed in its original location just north of the Rueck Road crossing, made possible through the generous financial support of the Oerter Foundation. The sign was cast by Advanced Pattern Works of Collinsville, IL, using a slightly damaged original that had been unearthed near its original site by the City of Columbia’s Department of Public Works (DOPW) in the late 1980s. Fortunately, a DOPW employee recognized its potential historical value and passed it along to his brother, a GM&O Railroad history enthusiast, who preserved and restored it for reproduction. With the completion of the south section of the trail, the reproduction Corporation Line sign at the south end has also been returned to its original location. These signs were originally placed by the railroad at the Columbia city limits around 1900. Notably, the southern Illinois towns of Ava, Alto Pass, and Jonesboro still have their original signs in place.
Crossing Signals
Crossbucks and crossing signals were reinstalled at the Rueck Road and Locust Street crossings, with minor modifications to indicate to drivers a “TRAIL” crossing. Although no longer operational, the signals serve as nostalgic reminders of the days when trains once passed through these intersections. Additional crossbucks and signals for Cherry Street, Metter/Ferkel, and Centerville Avenue are scheduled to be installed in 2025.
Millstadt Junction Trestle
Volunteers undertook the restoration of the trestle at milepost 631.84, which had suffered significant deterioration due to rotted timbers. The structure was rebuilt using lumber matching the original dimensions and incorporating much of the original hardware. The project involved replacing one cap, installing three new stringers, and constructing a complete new deck and curbing. In addition, code-compliant railings were added.
Special thanks to the following individuals who generously volunteered their time and skills (listed alphabetically):
Chris Becker
Gene Ebersohl
Steve Eckert
Wes Hoeffken
Mark Kohlenberger
Ed Merz
Mark Merz
Bob and Mary Ellen Niemietz
Jon and Jack Sander
Joe Sander
Bill Seibel
Trail Interpretive Signs
Informational signs have been installed along the trail to explain the purpose of various railroad signs and to highlight significant historical points of interest. These markers help trail users better understand the rich railroad history of the area as they explore the path.
Memorial Benches
The Memorial Bench Donation Program offers individuals and groups the opportunity to donate a park bench to be placed along the trail in honor of a loved one or to commemorate a special event. These benches provide a meaningful way to celebrate memories while enhancing the trail experience for all visitors.
For cost estimates, please contact Public Works Director Mike Sander at 618-281-4264 ext. 303 or via email at msander@columbiail.gov.
What to Expect Next
In 2021, the City launched the Quarry Road improvement project, which included the addition of a trail along the south side of Quarry Road. This new segment connects to the existing trail at Millstadt Junction and extends eastward to Rueck Road. Notably, Quarry Road follows the original path of the rail line that once led to Millstadt.
As the Creekside Park project continues to advance, the GM\&O Trail will be linked to the future Creekside Park trail via a new bridge that will connect the two paths.
Looking ahead, the City will evaluate the feasibility of extending the trail from Ghent Road northward to the Union Pacific tracks at Bixby Junction.