GRAND ISLAND, Neb. -- Big plans are ahead for Camp Augustine now that is owned by the city of Grand Island.

On Sunday evening, officials and the community of Grand Island gathered for a ceremony honoring the transition of ownership from the Boy Scouts to the city. 

City Mayor Roger Steele said it will create learning opportunities for children. 

“The transfer of Camp Augustine to the city of Grand Island is a shining example of the bright future for our citizens, especially for the future outdoor recreational and educational opportunities it creates for families and youth of our city,” Steele said.

The city acquired the 156-acre campground for a little less than $2 million. For now, the city plans to hire an architecture design firm to work on a masterplan for the property. However, Steele said he has an idea.

“In one year, I want to construct a hike bike trail from the city out to here, so people can walk or ride a bicycle to come out here, so you don’t have to drive a car…,“ Steele said. 

He said the trail would be south of the south Walmart, where a hike bike trail is already. It would continue along the west side of South Locust St. right to Camp Augustine. 

Steele said the plan is to preserve the place as a natural area that can be used for education. There are also plans to include it in the nearby Mormon Island Recreation Area, but all of that is still in the discussion phase.