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This spring, the El Dorado County Transportation Commission (EDCTC) joined local officials and trail advocates to cut the ribbon on the Missouri Flat Overcrossing—a new addition to the El Dorado Trail that will transform connectivity and improve safety for everyone from local community members to weekend adventurers.

 

The El Dorado Trail began taking shape in the Placerville area nearly 20 years ago, with its first overcrossing at Smith Flat completed in 2001. As time has gone on, segments have gradually grown east toward Camino and west toward Diamond Springs. “This addition to the trail provides improved connectivity to the community of El Dorado, and it supports efforts to keep local residents safe,” explains Jerry Barton, senior transportation planner at EDCTC.

Before the overcrossing, two popular trail sections on either side of Missouri Flat Road were being used, but without a safe way to connect them. Cyclists and pedestrians had to navigate a four-lane highway with fast-moving traffic and limited crossing infrastructure.

Despite the clear need, securing funding for the overcrossing was a major hurdle. EDCTC submitted the project for funding six times through state and regional Active Transportation Program (ATP) cycles. Yet, the team persisted, driven by growing safety concerns. Missouri Flat Road’s fast-moving traffic and increasing activity on both sides of the trail made the need for a safe crossing more urgent with each passing year.

Fortunately, the project has sustained strong community support throughout its process. “People saw the concept of the overcrossing and could see that this would be a great connective opportunity,” Barton shared. The vision of a safer, unified trail kept momentum alive through multiple application cycles.

The overcrossing not only links El Dorado and Diamond Springs—it also knits together shopping districts, Apple Hill tourism, and future trail extensions. Since opening, the connected El Dorado Trail has seen an increase in use, with more people walking, biking, and exploring the area in new ways. A new bike park at the western landing adds to the activity, offering a fun destination for riders of all ages. With safer, more continuous travel and new amenities drawing people in, the bridge is already becoming a vibrant hub for recreation, tourism, and everyday mobility.