The Town of Rockland O&W Rail Trail Steering Committee met on Wednesday, Feb. 12, for an update from consultants Jack Gordon and Lora Shilling from of HVEA Engineers of Chestnut Ridge, NY.

They unveiled detailed plans for the approximately 1.25 -mile-long trail from the Liberty-Rockland border to this hamlet’s Main Street. Much site-work planning has been done to create a 12-foot-wide path, while making sure it has a sufficient border for safety and minimizing water run-off that might flood the path and cause erosion.

Rockland Supervisor Rob Eggleton and committee member Lisa Lyons noted the importance of engaging neighboring landowners in the process, especially those whose homes might be visible from the trail. Consultant Gordon agreed, and discussed various types of green screening that could be utilized. The group agreed that now would be the time to reach out to such owners to invite them to meet with members of the committee to share their thoughts.

The committee also discussed possible signage on the trail, consistent with the county’s design for the rest of the Rail Trail. Also discussed were various methods that would be used to minimize water collection spots on the trail, as well as knotweed removal and control.

Eggleton also updated the group on the status of the discussions with three property owners along Pleasant Street, where easements are needed to have the trail extend to Main Street. All of them are enthused and cooperative.

Town councilwoman and committee member Christine Routledge commented afterwards, “I am very pleased to be part of this outstanding committee, and look forward to fostering excitement and support for this initiative. It will bring another valuable recreational exercise option to our community.”

The next step in the design work will be to nail down the drainage issues and greenery screening, and cost estimates. The committee will also walk the old roadbed from Parksville with the consultants for a first-hand look. A public meeting on the trail will be scheduled for late April or early May.

Meanwhile, over in Liberty, work is also proceeding on the Parksville section of the trail to extend it from the current terminus at Fox Mountain Road to link up with the Manor trail. Alta Engineering has completed the design of this portion of the trail and the state’s Dept. of Transportation is conducting a comprehensive mapping of the project. According to Nick Rusin, of the supervisor’s office, this section of the trail will offer new features at Fox Mountain Road in order to provide safe access under the Route 17 overpass and enhanced access for both hikers and bikers as the trail proceeds towards Sonoma Falls.

When both sections are completed, there will be over four miles of unbroken trail from Main Street in Parksville to downtown Livingston Manor.