Gov. Jay Nixon announces 47.5-mile Katy Trail extension

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Missouri is adding another 47.5 miles to the Katy Trail, providing hikers and bikers from the Kansas City, Missouri-area greater access to the nation's longest rail-to-trail conversion.

Gov. Jay Nixon announced Thursday the extension will stretch from Windsor to Pleasant Hill along the Rock Island Trail State Park. It is expected to be completed by the end of 2016. Currently, the 240-mile Katy Trail spans from Clinton to St. Charles County.

The announcement comes as the trail marks its 25th anniversary. Nixon said in a written statement one of his priorities as governor has been to "improve and expand our outstanding park system." He said the parks draw tourists and usage is on the rise.