Designs are now in progress to improve the Sound to Olympics Trails along Highway 305.

The Bainbridge Island City Council approved a contract Monday to MacLeod Reckord PLLC for preliminary designs of a shared, separated pathway that will guide visitors from Winslow Way to the bridge at Ravine Creek.

The project is the second phase of the Sound to Olympics Trails and will complete the design for the “first mile.”

Consultants with MacLeod Reckord will study potential branch connections.

A new pathway is planned to connect the Ravine Creek Non-Motorized Bridge and an existing 800-foot section of the trail.

Five firms applied to design the project earlier this summer. MacLeod Reckord was selected as the most qualified consultant.

The council approved a contract Monday with the firm for $164,368.

The scope of work includes surveying and mapping the area, public outreach support and conceptual designs.

Once a final design takes shape, the consultant will provide a 30-percent schematic design, 60-percent design development, 90-percent construction documents and 100-percent bid documents.

MacLeod Reckord will also provide support once construction begins.