LUFKIN – The City of Lufkin, in partnership with the Texas Forest Service, is excited to announce the start of the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI – pronounced “wooh-e”) Project at Kit McConnico Park. This project is designed to improve safety, enhance the trail experience, and support the health of the park’s natural environment.
What’s Happening?
Crews are beginning work in the back of the park near the wood line and will start mulching thick vegetation over the next couple of weeks. The mulching will make the trail more open and accessible for park visitors, improve sightlines, and help reduce wildfire risks. Visitors will continue to enjoy the trail until work begins in the trail area.
Trail Closures and Detours
During the mulching process, some parts of the trail will be temporarily closed for safety. Visitors are asked to follow posted signs and detour routes. The trail will remain open until mulching work begins, at which point closures and detours will be announced. The trail will reopen as soon as the mulching is completed.
What’s Coming Next?
Once mulching is finished, a controlled burn is planned for the spring. The controlled burn will help clear any remaining brush, reduce fire risks, and encourage healthy plant growth throughout the park.
Why Is This Important?
The WUI Project will make Kit McConnico Park safer for visitors and help protect it from potential wildfires. The project will also create a more enjoyable trail experience, providing a safer and more open path for everyone to enjoy the park’s natural beauty.
“We are excited to begin this important work with the Texas Forest Service,” said Lufkin Fire Chief Jesse Moody. “This project will help make Kit McConnico Park safer, more beautiful, and a better place for the entire community to enjoy.”
Stay Informed
For more information and updates on the WUI Project and trail closures, please visit www.cityoflufkin.com or follow the City of Lufkin on social media.