Originally a self-propelled passenger train connecting rural Kansas to cities like Topeka, the historic “Doodlebug” now lends its name to a recreational trail in Valley Falls. First converted from an abandoned rail corridor in 2009, the trail had fallen out of community use due to lack of programming and visibility.
Landworks Studio worked with the Valley Falls Recreation Commission to reimagine the Doodlebug Trail as a valued community asset. Our master plan enhances connections to nearby parks and community destinations including a river overlook, sports complex, and tree memorial park while proposing critical infrastructure like highway crossings, ADA-accessible parking, privacy screening, and seating. The plan also includes cost estimates and phased recommendations to help guide funding, grant applications, and future implementation.
