Portion of Cotter River Trail to Close for Sewer Work

Upper section will be shut down for 4-6 weeks for tree removal and manhole sealing.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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A section of the Cotter River Trail in Gassville, Arkansas will be closed to the public starting Monday, February 17th. The upper portion of the trail from the north gate at HIS Place Resort to just past the new bridge will be shut down for approximately 4-6 weeks while a subcontractor removes trees and seals a concrete manhole as part of the USDA Phase II Sewer Project.

Why it matters

The Cotter River Trail is a popular recreational area for residents and visitors. The temporary closure will disrupt access and usage of this community asset, though the work is necessary to protect the recently installed sewer main from potential tree damage.

The details

The subcontractor will remove trees in the closed-off area to safeguard the new sewer main, as required under the USDA sewer project. After the tree removal, the contractor will then seal the inside of a concrete manhole located on the walking trail.

  • The trail closure will begin on Monday, February 17, 2026.
  • The closure is expected to last approximately 4-6 weeks, depending on weather conditions.

The players

HIS Place Resort

A resort located along the Cotter River Trail where the closure will begin.

Mayor McGeorge Caradine

The mayor of Gassville, Arkansas, who apologized for the inconvenience and expressed appreciation for the public's understanding.

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What they’re saying

“We apologize for the inconvenience and express appreciation for the public's understanding as work continues to finalize the Cotter-Gassville USDA Sewer Project.”

— Mayor McGeorge Caradine (ktlo.com)

What’s next

For more information, residents can contact Mayor McGeorge Caradine's office at 870-232-2000.

The takeaway

While the temporary closure of the Cotter River Trail will disrupt recreational access, the work is necessary to protect the newly installed sewer infrastructure as part of a larger USDA project to improve the area's wastewater system.