Friends of the SoPac Trail (FOTST) started as a small group of residents and has grown into a diverse group representing several neighborhoods and associations. The future of the FOTST is to continue our support for the SoPac Trail and to align ourselves with all trails groups supporting the City of Dallas Hike and Bike Trails Masterplan.

"It's really fulfilling to see how a group of like-minded neighbors can work together to improve our pubic spaces. And to support our natural environment too."

~Friends of the SoPac Trail

HOW THE SOPAC TRAIL CAME TO BE.

2010 - A small group of residents created Friends of The Southern Pacific Trail to advocate for the inclusion of funding for the trail in the City of Dallas 2012 Bond Program. Once the funding was secured, FOTST engaged city and county agencies to facilitate the construction of the trail after several issues caused delays in the construction.

2012-2020 - Construction of the trail resides on a historic unused rail bed of the old Southern Pacific Railroad. It spanned 8 years and was completed in the fall of 2020. FOTST developed a plan to enhance the trail with several amenities. A partnership was formed with the Dallas Park and Recreation Department and funds were raised under the auspices of The Dallas Parks Foundation..

2021-PRESENT - FOTST planned and completed several projects on the southern end of the trail including a stone seating area, a multi-purpose drinking fountain, a pollinator garden, several trees with accompanying irrigation and trash receptacles. The area surrounding what became known as the SoPac Respite Project became a well-manicured park area from what was formerly a piece of overgrown and unsightly patch under a bridge.

FUTURE…

FOTST has several other future projects planned which include, but not limited to safety improvements, signage, graffiti removal, tree plantings and designated wildflower areas. Friends of The SoPac Trail is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all trail users.