Click to see how the whole
region is active and connected.
Here are some examples of CGT member projects:
The projects undertaken by the members of the Council on Greenways & Trails (CGT) build and showcase the region’s trails and natural greenways as the connectors to this unique place. The awareness of this area and draw to visitors has grown as one project has lead to another and the whole has become greater than the sum of its parts.
2008 - 2015 Accomplishments
2008-2009 Progress Report
2009-2010 Progress Report
2010-2011 Progress Report
2011-2012 Progress Report
2012
Progress Report
2013
Progress Report
2014
Progress Report
Small town culture
Cochranton Landing recently received new enhancements in a ceremony unveiling some interpretive panels. When accessing French Creek in this family friendly town, you can learn more about the waterway and George Washington's visit. At the base of the RT 173 bridge and W. Adams St., the kayak/canoe launch and landing site has been developed as a small park with picnic tables, landscaped with variegated willow along the creek and is a popular fishing spot.
Stewardship and Maintenance
The "Over the Hill Gang" have taken the stewardship of the hiking trails in Oil Creek State Park to a new level. They care for these trails and have made them world class for events such as the OC100 which is now an international trail running race. The work is hard but rewarding.
Canoe/Kayak Access
The Allegheny Valley Conservancy created a new canoe/kayak access to the Allegheny River at Dotter, about four miles north of Emlenton. Located next to the trail and a parking area, the access has a circular drive for loading and unloading and a picnic pavilion.
The origianal access to the water was completed by a high school senior with assistance from the Venango Conservation District and other volunteer labor and machinery. It has since been upgraded with more steps and handrail.
Camping is permitted with access from both the trail and the river.
Trail gap projects...Infrastructure needs...Partnerships
CGT partners are working to complete trail projects throughout the region. One such project is the extension of the East Branch Trail between Corry and Spartansburg. Once funding is obtained, the Black Bridge will be renovated and the trail will travel through a new trailhead gateway to the business district in Corry.
Infrastructure such as former railroad bridges and tunnels, trailheads, signage and connections to town are important to the trail system but can also be major obstacles for volunteer groups. Partnerships with experienced groups, stakeholders and funders are the first step to completing these projects.
Trail Towns along the EPT
The Trail Town concept, connecting the economic benefits of trails and greenways to our communities is expanding along the Erie to Pittsburgh Trail.
♦ 5 Towns officially designated
Titusville, Oil City, Franklin, Emlenton, Foxburg
♦ Titusville completed a Trail Town Master Plan in 2013.
♦ Corry and Spartansburg completed assessments and is
implementing projects along with other programs.
♦ Two Trail Town Summits have been held for local businesses.
♦ Over 50 businesses signed up for the Trail Town Certified
Business Network with The Progress Fund.
♦Two towns in Clarion County have also begun Trail Town
planning.