Scenic trail proposed to School Board

By Rhonda Simmons

Published: October 27, 2008

A new 2.5-mile multi-use recreation trail could wind around Eastern View High School and the Culpeper Sports Complex next year.

That’s if funding is made available for the $210,000 project, according to John Barrett, Culpeper Parks and Recreation director.

Barrett presented his plans for the scenic trail Monday evening to the Culpeper County School Board.

The potential 8-foot wide paved trail would connect to the existing half-mile track and operate as a biking, walking and/or skating path.

Barrett’s plea to the School Board was to request funding and for it to write a resolution, supporting the proposed trail.

“If the school (division) contributes a residual amount of money (for instance) a couple of thousand dollars that may help us out when applying for the grant,” he said.

The competition is fierce, Barrett said, when applying for state grants.

“I think with the schools and the county going on board with this it may give us a little bit of a better chance to obtain the grant,” he said.

The new trail would begin near the Little League field, wind around the sports complex parallel to U.S. 29 and around the new high school.

What about safety?

Barrett suggested building a fence between the walking trail and EVHS and/or posting signs to inform the public to keep off of the property during school hours.

Member Leanne Jenkins said she supports the idea, but had one reservation.

“I think it will be great for the community,” she said.

“I will say that I’m not sure how I feel about a fence. I would rather see us closing off portions of it.”

If approved, the school division and the department of parks and recreation would share usage of the multi-use trail, according to Barrett’s proposal.

Barrett estimates that the project, if funded, would begin next summer and only take about a month to complete.

Barrett said the walking trail is essential to the community for several reasons.

“People like to walk and it’s healthy for them to do so,” he said. “People can use this as a way to relieve stress and it could be spiritual, too.”

Next, the board plans to discuss the potential walking trail and present its decision to Barrett by December.

Rhonda Simmons can be reached at 825-0771 ext. 125 or .