Progress on the West Creek Recreational Trail

 

The West Creek Rails to Trails project linking St Marys and Emporium rolling along.  This month members of the St Marys Snowmobile Association and volunteers from Emporium have been rebuilding the black bridge at the entrance of Emporium.  The old decking has been removed and the crews are in the process of installing new decking and safety walls.

 The volunteers say they continue to look for workers.  No experience is needed, as the project requires lots of loading and unloading of wood.  Crews are working every Saturday morning starting at 8am.  If you can give an hour or more of your time stop at the site or contact Scott Rodich at 814-594-7825.

 This is the first phase of the construction of rails to trails using the former railroad bed, which has not reverted to neighboring properties but instead has been rail banked by the railroad company.  The difference is that the railroad retains ownership and nothing permanent can be erected in the right of way of the former rail line.

 

The next step will be taken in July when bids will be opened for the project which will stretch from the caboose in the eastern end of Emporium to Howard Siding.  A surface will be installed, a split rail fence outlining the trail through Emporium and safety signage will all be completed by a contractor

 

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