The Dinkytown bike-ped bypass is now open for wheeled and foot traffic.

You can catch the new route either at the east end of Bridge 9 just off the Mississippi River, or just off the intersection of SE. Oak and 5th Streets. That's not far from the west end of the existing University Transitway.

Of course a new bike trail wouldn't be official without a few politicians proving they can ride bikes. So if you want to join them for the ceremonial opening, they're meeting at noon Sunday on the mall of the University of Minnesota's St. Paul campus. Meet at the corner of Carter and Eckles Avenues, near the Transitway's east end. Other stops along the way are at 12:20 p.m. at 5th Street and Malcolm Avenue SE. in Minneapolis, and at 12:45 p.m. at 5th and Oak.

If you don't like crowds, the new trail is lit, so you can ride or walk it any hour. But if you're looking for a scenic route, be forewarned that its view is mostly parked rail cars and idle tracks.

STEVE BRANDT