Bicyclists, runners and walkers in Sioux Falls [South Dakota] will gain 1.25 miles of scenic trail this summer with an expansion along Skunk Creek.

Sen. John Thune and Sioux Falls Mayor Dave Munson turned dirt at a ceremonial groundbreaking for the project Monday.

The trail expansion follows the west side of Skunk Creek in Dunham Park to 12th Street and will include four bridges, scenic river views and expanded fishing opportunities.

The target completion date is Oct. 17, said Troy Miedema, park development specialist for the city.

Thune said the expansion will provide recreation opportunities important to economic development.

"Sioux Falls is growing, and we can reach that growing population with this trail expansion," he said.

Munson praised Thune's leadership in providing federal money for the trail and said the trail system and upcoming expansion contribute to the high quality of life in Sioux Falls.

Many bicycle enthusiasts attended the groundbreaking, including Mark Emry of Falls Area Bicyclists.

"It's nice that the city is doing this ... healthy lifestyles are very important, and part of that is taking advantage of this opportunity," he said.

Mike Johnson, who rides his bike 15 to 20 miles a day, learned Monday of the trail extension.

"It's cool. I ride to work every day," he said. For him, that's five miles from Dunham Park to a job in security at The Empire Mall.

The project will cost $1.34 million, with $980,000 from a budget earmark from the federal transportation fund. The other $360,000 comes from local taxes.