A paved path linking Sunriver and Lava Lands Visitor Center could open in early August.

According to a release from the Oregon Department of Transportation, construction crews are putting the finishing touches — adding handrails and striping — on a new paved, multiuse trail that links Sunriver, Benham East day use area and Lava Butte. The path, built by ODOT and the U.S. Forest Service, allows pedestrians and bicyclists safe access to the three popular spots.

The goal of the project was to provide more access to the Newberry National Volcanic Monument by providing ways to get there other than by car.

The trail is ready to open once the Forest Service approves it, and an opening event is slated for 10 a.m., Aug. 9, at the Lava Lands Visitors Center.

The 5.5-mile asphalt trail was expected to cost $1.85 million, funded by the Public Lands Highways Discretionary Program and the ODOT Rail Safety Program. The project includes new railroad crossing gates and lights at Benham Falls Road and signs along the 10-foot-wide route.

The trail was first planned beginning in 2009, but it took until 2013 for the Forest Service to finalize details on the path.