Ligonier Valley Trail

Photo Opportunity for Bridge Challenge Participants and Volunteers

2012-01-05T12:15:00.004-05:00

Please join us this Sunday, January 8 at 1:00PM at the Peoples Road end of the rail bed for a walk and a group photo for the Echo.

Bring your friends and family too.

The Bridge Challenge Is Completed

2011-12-20T23:12:00.011-05:00

Thanks to many donors and the hard work of the Ligonier Township Recreation Board, Ligonier Borough and the Loyalhanna Watershed, we met the challenge to raise the $20,000 to complete the Challenge for a matching $20,000. This completes the proposed budget needed to be able to purchase and install a prefabricated bridge across Mill Creek behind Weller Field.

The next step is to prepare the bid requirements and choose a contractor.
We will see the work completed in 2012.
A happy, healthy New Year to you!

Almost Complete - Way To Go!

2011-12-17T16:08:00.003-05:00

We're Getting There!

2011-12-13T23:47:00.003-05:00

A great jump in our donations this week.
Thanks for the Latrobe Bulletin article by Jen Sopko for getting the word out again.

Bridge Builders Come In ALL Sizes

2011-12-08T12:28:00.006-05:00

Thanks to all the donors who have brought us this far in the Bridge Challenge.

We have made a nice jump this week and we hope to be able to show a substantial increase next time we update. We have been working very hard to get the word out, as have you, and we are very happy to have so many supporters on board.For those of you that have not been able to help this time, the trail will have more challenges ahead, and we hope you can join us in building more of the trail in the future.

Thank You!

Please Join Us In Meeting the Challenge to Build the Bridge

2011-11-16T08:23:00.016-05:00

Trail Friends and Followers:

We have an opportunity to finish raising our budget for the bridge we need over Mill Creek THIS YEAR. We need you individuals and businesses to come through to raise this $20,000 match.

A version of the letter below has gone out, or is going out, this month. Please read this and share it with your friends and neighbors who also want to see good things happen in Ligonier like you do.

November 2011

Ligonier Valley Trail/Mill Creek Bridge Project in Ligonier

Dear Friends of the Ligonier Valley Trail:

We would like to take this opportunity to invite you to donate toward our end of year fund drive. Through a matching grant that we have secured, your donation will receive a dollar to dollar match up to $20,000.00. We need the additional $40,000, with your donation matched one to one, to complete the fundraising to purchase and install a prefabricated bridge and ramp to connect the Ligonier Valley Trail over Mill Creek. The one to one match and other funding for the bridge will expire on December 31, 2011. The time is now!

Ligonier Borough and Township, and the Loyalhanna Watershed Association are partners in this project. The Forbes Trail Chapter of Trout Unlimited will complete the necessary Mill Creek Stream Restoration & Trout Habitat Reconnection project, to protect and prevent further erosion around the existing historic abutments. The bridge is located next to Ligonier Borough’s Weller Field, the area’s public sports complex, and is very accessible to all local residents. This portion of our trail will have great public visibility, and gain from the accessibility of two municipalities to all the recreation in our area.

The Mill Creek Bridge project takes the historical foundation of the old LVRR railroad bridge and brings it back to life and use for anyone and everyone: a soccer player from the Borough; a carpool mom needing some quiet time; a hotel visitor wanting a bike ride in the countryside; a community group organizing a fundraising road race. Although we have a plan that connects miles of our roads and trails, without the bridge, the trail cannot reach its unlimited potential.

Biking opportunities for youngsters and casual riders in Ligonier are weak at this time. We have a local bicycling community that travels elsewhere for their biking needs. This bridge will provide the foundation for trail growth and activity within our immediate area. Our effort is to make our trail a source of activity for the locals and visitors, therefore providing new business opportunities, strengthening existing ones, raising awareness of our natural and cultural assets, and expanding the length of time and the amount of dollars people spend in the Ligonier Valley. Our future plans, as outlined in the Ligonier Valley Trail Feasibility Study, will generate trails and bikeways in all directions.

The Ligonier Valley Trail creates a major attraction in our Laurel Highlands, and adds one more great reason to live in or visit Ligonier. The Mill Creek Bridge, the project for which we seek your financial assistance, is key to making our dream, our vision, a reality.

Thank you in advance for your tax deductible donation to this valuable project. Donations of $1,000 and above will be recognized at the bridge dedication.

Sincerely,

Please make your check payable to LWA; Memo- Bridge Challenge.

Mail to: LWA, 110 Andi Lane, Ligonier, PA 15658.

For more information, please call Cathy Johnston at 724 238 7560, or email lvtrail@gmail.com

http://ligoniervalleytrail.blogspot.com

Twelve Mini Grants Approved

2011-11-07T18:54:00.007-05:00

Ligonier Township Recreation Board is pleased to be one of the groups awarded a grant in the amount of $15,000.00. Our Lincoln Highway Heritage Corridor Grant is to go toward the purchase and installation of a prefabricated bridge and ramp at the site of the old Ligonier Valley Railroad bridge in Ligonier for pedestrian and bicycle recreation. This bridge is the key connector to all our recreation areas and allows full use of the railbed from Ligonier Township and Borough. It will fill the gap that we are looking at in the photo below.The following article is reproduced from the Laurel Highlands CLI Volume 3, No. 5 Newsletter of August 18, 2011
The National Road Heritage Corridor and the Lincoln Highway Heritage Corridor have awarded 12 grants to nonprofits and municipalities in the Laurel Highlands. Grant funding orginates from the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to support the Laurel Highlands CLI.

Recipients were: Allegheny Ridge Corporation, Casselman River Watershed, City of Greensburg, City of Johnstown, Coal and Coke Trail Chapter, Johnstown Redevelopment Authority, Latrobe Community Revitalization Partnership, Ligonier Township Recreation Board, Mountain Watershed Association, the Progress Fund, Stonycreek Quemahoning Initiative and Wharton Township.

The projects all require at least a one-to-one match, so the grants will leverage more than $100,000 in additional money. Projects were given priority if they were located in communities and parks along four focus landscapes - Laurel Ridge, Chestnut Ridge, the Stonycreek River/Johnstown area, and the Great Allegheny Passage rail trail.

About Conservation Landscape Initiatives

Laurel Highlands Conservation Landscape Initiative

Hunting Concerns On the Railbed

2011-10-31T18:03:00.006-04:00

Recently, a trail user was warned that hunting season is upon us and that people are hunting nearby.

The rail bed section was generously donated to Ligonier Township by Bethlen Communities through an easement, to use as a trail. The wooded portion of the trail from Kananga Farm to Mill Creek is Bethlen Communities land on both sides. Since the trail development began, Bethlen Communities has turned down requests for hunting on the surrounding property as a safety precaution for the trail walkers and bikers.

Please know that if hunters are seen anywhere along the surfaced rail bed section near Peoples Road, you should call 911 or Bethlen Communities to make them aware of the problem. Hunting is not allowed.

Trail Improvements On The Railbed

2011-10-18T11:16:00.006-04:00

When you drive by Peoples Road at the rail bed intersection of the trail, you will notice a big change.

The cement barriers are removed. At the first stream crossing, we have a proper gate.

Many thanks to our Ligonier Township crew that did such a fine job. The grass has also been mowed, and repairs were made to the wash out half way down.

Do not let the "Road Closed" sign deter you from using the trail to walk or bike. The sign remains as a precaution for motorized traffic who may think the trail is a road. The trail is for pedestrian and bicycle traffic only.

Enjoy!

Our Feasibility Study Is Available For Download And Viewing

2011-09-27T11:46:00.005-04:00

The feasibility is available for all to download or read here.

LVTB Feasibility Study 110608

View more documents from Ligonier Valley Trail

Finding Trails

2011-08-11T00:47:00.007-04:00

To the right you will find a new "gadget" where you can find more information about our trail and other trails. If you are new to the area, these might help you find your way to Ligonier.More Places To Find the Ligonier Valley Trail

At this date ExplorePATrails
( http://explorepatrails.com/singletrail.aspx?id=364 )
has more accurate and complete information, but we are updating both as fast as we can.

Mill Creek Bridge Permit Approved

2011-08-09T10:52:00.006-04:00

We are one step closer to building a bridge over Mill Creek behind Weller Field. Last month we received notice from the DEP that our bridge permit is approved. Within the permit, we have requirements that take into consideration the flooding in that area that we must be aware of when we choose the bridge type and construction materials.
Thanks go to Jim Pillsbury, PE (in blue jacket) at the Westmoreland Conservation District for guiding us though that process. Thanks also to all the volunteers and officials that contributed to this effort.

There is much more happening regarding the trail. Much of it requires patience and waiting. Other people and groups working on trails know this well. We hope to be able to have more good news in the coming weeks that will lead us to putting the bridge work to bid, and constructing another portion of the trail.

As the weather appears to be cooling, we will be forming teams for September work days. Please watch for these postings and send us your contact information if you would like to help.
Email: lvtrail@gmail.com

Bike Rally Fun!

2011-07-05T10:58:00.011-04:00

Twenty youngsters from ages one to twelve arrived with new birthday bikes, new "old" bikes, and even tricycles and Big Wheels, to test their skills at the Ligonier Township Recreation Board Bike Rally held on June 25, 2011 at Ligonier Township Municipal Building parking lot.

The youngsters were able to practice on the four skills courses, take a safety quiz, receive a free new bicycle helmet and fun freebies, but most importantly, learn about why they want to wear their helmets.
Is this how you wear a helmet? Two year old Leah gives a little advice. It tastes new. Now one year old Rowan gets serious. The early comers posing in front of the figure eight course. The kids were thrilled to have the attention of Officer Chip Madden at the Rally.
Traffic signals and safety tips were discussed by Officer Madden, Ligonier Township Police Department. Board members, Topher Delamarter fit helmets, and Matt Thomas inspected and adjusted bicycles.

Getting ready for the panel discussion on
“Concussions and How to Prevent Them”. Our panel consisted of Moderator and Board Member, Elizabeth McCall; nurse and parent,Terri Hughes; Dr. James Masterson, Director Excela Health Concussion Program; students Anna Ayers(14) and John Michael Hughes(11).

The ambulance crew of Jim Secrist and Jason English gave the kids a taste of what its like to be in an ambulance.
Thanks to Excela Health for providing helmets to our kids. All recipients were properly fitted and attended the bike rally to improve their riding skills, learn safety rules, and learn about how their helmet can save them from serious injury

Our thanks and appreciation goes to:

Idlewild Park; Laurel Highlands Visitor’s Bureau; Walmart; and Gary Dye for their generous donations.

Also thanks to Keith Whipkey and Tim Komar – Township Supervisors; Paul Fry, Ligonier Borough Public Works; Senator Don White/ Gina Jones, and Ligonier Township Police Chief Matrunics for their time and assistance in providing supplies and administrative assistance.

Thanks to volunteers Dave Tetkoski, and Jeremy McCall, and organizers Elizabeth McCall, Topher Delamarter, Matt Thomas, Sharon Detar and Rose Stepnick.

Thank you to all the guests, parents and volunteers for making this day a valuable one.

BIKE RALLY FOR KIDS

2011-06-20T23:46:00.004-04:00

Ligonier Township Recreation Board announces:

BIKE RALLY FOR KIDS

June 25, 2011

1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m.

Ligonier Township Municipal Building

(2 miles north of Ligonier off of Route 711N)

Bring your bike and get cool freebies!

Helmets provided to kids in need of one who bring their bike and a guardian (Courtesy of Excela Health)

50 available to the first eligible attendees.

Ligonier Township Recreation Board And "Friends" As Featured Vendor at The Country Market

2011-06-14T00:03:00.008-04:00

May 21,2011
What a great first day of the Ligonier Country Market, and how fortunate that we were the "Special Feature".The weather and the crowds could not have been better. Thousands of visitors came to the market, and hundreds stopped by.
We came equipped with our newest maps and the latest draft (now completed) of our feasibility study, and were found poring over them for four hours with the very interested and enthusiastic visitors.Matt Thomas and Topher Delamarter brought their repair equipment and bikes to demonstrate and discuss bike care. Elizabeth McCall brought helmets to promote the Bike Rally and Helmet Give Away June 25th.Young, and more experienced riders stopped to chat and ask questions. We made new "Friends" and volunteers at the market, and all hope to see our success at continuing the trail and building THE BRIDGE!

Thanks to the Ligonier Country Market for featuring our group and their support of the trail.

Thanks to our volunteers and visitors all!

Come See Us - The Featured Vendor At The Ligonier Country Market, May 21st

2011-05-19T12:52:00.010-04:00

Ligonier Township Recreation Board and the Friends of the Ligonier Valley Trail will be the featured vendor for the opening day of our fantastic farmers market! You cant beat the food, flowers and fun - even on a rainy day! Come one! Come ALL!Recreation Board members Matt Thomas (professional bicycle mechanic and fitter, formerly of Speedgoat) and Topher Delamarter (local cycling expert and racer) will be sharing hands on technical, riding and safety knowledge, and local cycling information, while other members share Ligonier Valley Trail plans. Parents with young riders will be able to learn how to properly fit a helmet and will get information about acquiring one of fifty free bicycle helmets provided by Excela Health for their child. Dates and times for participating in the children’s bike rally and safety day to receive the free helmet are tentatively set at for 1:00 -3:00PM, Saturday June 25 at the Ligonier Township Municipal Park Complex. Participating children will be required to bring their bike and be with a guardian or parent to participate. Part of the event will emphasize the need for the bike helmets to avoid injury and concussions. Please watch for more information to verify the time and place.

Friends of the Ligonier Valley Trail began its partnership with the Country Market two seasons ago with its first shared bike rack for visitors at the Market. This was the beginning of making Ligonier bicycle friendly in preparation of the Ligonier Valley Trail and Bikeway that the Ligonier Township Recreation Board has been developing. Since then, the Friends have shared in purchasing a bike rack at the Ligonier Valley Y, and this winter provided a rack at the Ligonier Valley Library. Friends have also joined in trail clean-ups, provided donations of services for the trail development, and advised the Feasibility Study group.

The Friends of the Ligonier Valley Trail is a volunteer group looking for new members to participate in work days, events, fundraisers and help develop future plans for Ligonier’s trail community.

Education Trust Grant For Improving Nature Trail

2011-05-04T09:02:00.005-04:00

Ligonier Township Recreation Board received one of the 2011 Ligonier Valley Education Trust Grants at a reception on April 19 at the Ligonier Valley High School. The Trust is a component fund of the Community Foundation of Westmoreland County. Their mission is to provide support for a broad range of educational and enrichment activities for residents in all communities of the Ligonier Valley.

Our grant will bring back the educational signs and trail markers to the existing Nature Trail on the Ligonier Township Municipal Complex property at One Municipal Park Road, off Rt.711 in Ligonier.

The Nature Trail was built in 2002, when the township moved its offices to the current property. The signs and educational information for the original signs were developed for an Eagle Scout project. Neglect and the abuse of time and weather have destroyed most of these markers. The graphics are very well done, and the Recreation Board has suggested redoing this project and renovating the area in the past. This small grant will give us the jump start we need to put this renovation in motion.

These nineteen individual markers will be combined into a large trail map that will be put under Lexan (a clear polycarbonate sheet) on a kiosk, at the entrance of the trail adjoining the parking area. From here, small maps will be available to follow the trail and find the plants as they come into season. Small, numbered markers will be used along the trail to help locate individual plants. A downloadable map and educational materials will be made available on the Township web site for leaders, parents and walkers to prepare for walks ahead of time.

The youngest children to the oldest adults will be able to learn from finding the markers on the trail. The physical activity will be part of the experience, and other discoveries of their own will be found along the way. This is an area with wildlife, a small stream and wetlands. Fun facts will be on the maps that hikers can match to their stops. Activities can be expanded on by teachers and parents.

In time, the Nature Trail is planned to be the north most trail head for the Ligonier Valley Trail and Bikeway. We think this combination of outdoor nature activities and physical fitness through walking and biking will provide years of learning and enjoyment for all ages.

We appreciate the Trust giving us and others the opportunity to better serve our community by completing projects that will enhance the educational experience of all students, residents and visitors in Ligonier.

Earth Day - Clean Up Day Volunteers Blaze The Way

2011-05-02T12:00:00.012-04:00

The success of our trail depends on volunteers like the ones who showed up for the clean up at our trail head, and all over the Ligonier Valley last Saturday. We were all fortunate to have a dry, sunny day to work. Half our team spent the first part of the morning bagging glass, cans, car parts, house parts and all sorts of rubbish, that had been dumped, sometimes by the bagful, on the property. The other half of the team began blazing a path through grapevine wrapped brambles and saplings.
Jason, above, managed to break his loppers in the process, but everyone brought tools to share, and a machete continued the work.

As the morning progressed, we collected about eight bags of loose garbage, a wheelbarrow full of car parts, a small pile of lumber and bricks, and three large piles of cuttings.
By noon we had a continuous path to the rail bed and a fantastic view of Kananga Farm (formerly the Marker Farm). Several roots and stumps will require more muscle or larger machines, but we finally have an inkling of the beautiful potential of this property.

Another great clean up job by Jason and Shelley Wojciechowski, Marsha Peterson, Dave and Casey Tetkoski, and Rose Stepnick.
Thanks to Susan Parker who called all the "Friends" to put together our team.
Thanks to the Loyalhanna Watershed Association for organizing this event.

Forbes Trail Chapter of Trout Unlimited Announces Mill Creek Conservation Grant

2011-04-19T11:58:00.014-04:00

April 14, 2011 Release
Forbes Trail Chapter of Trout Unlimited announces it has been awarded a Coldwater Heritage Partnership conservation grant. This grant will be used to continue trout habitat restoration and stream bank stabilization on lower Mill Creek adjacent to the new Ligonier Valley Trail & Bikeway.

This long overdue stream work will not only improve trout fishing but contribute to reducing flooding in Ligonier Borough, and protect Ligonier’s new trail bridge.

The project will be undertaken in cooperation with the Loyalhanna Watershed Association, the Westmoreland Conservation District, the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, and the Ligonier Township Recreation Board.

Coldwater Heritage Partnership grants are funded by the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the PA Fish and Boat Commission, the Foundation for Pennsylvania Watersheds and the PA Council of Trout Unlimited. This grant is the first given by the partnership to implement projects identified in Forbes Trail Chapter’s Mill Creek Coldwater Conservation Plan developed under the leadership of past president Ken Vallino.

Since publishing its plan in 2005, the chapter has completed more than 25 stream bank restoration and trout habitat improvement projects along Mill Creek.

Attesting to the importance of the project, the chapter received this response from former Ligonier resident Jim Kurtz, “My brother drowned in Mill Creek in 1941. An unstable bank collapsed when he and a friend, against parental warnings, snuck off to scout promising trout hot spots. He was 5 years old. Trout fever runs in our veins. Let's get those banks stabilized.”

For more information please visit Forbes Trail’s Website www.forbestrailtu.org.

Monty Murty, President

Forbes Trail Chapter, Trout Unlimited

6th Annual Great Ligonier Valley Cleanup - April 30th

2011-04-14T14:48:00.014-04:00

We are putting together a team to work on the trail head clean up on Baltic Road for the Annual Earth Day commemoration.

The event goes from 9am to noon and if the trash clean up is completed ahead of time, we will work on some brush clean up to blaze a clear space on our lot.

Before...

The first ten volunteers to contact us will receive one of the t-shirts that the Loyalhanna Watershed gives us for the clean up team.Send an email to lvtrail@gmail.com and give us your name and telephone number. We will get back to you with any additional information if necessary.

After two hours work.

Please show up at the trail head site on Baltic Road in work attire and waterproof work shoes as the area is currently VERY wet. Please bring clippers, rakes, hoes, shovels, and a wheel barrow if you can. The trash will need to be transported to People's Road for pick up on the work day.

See you there!

Spring Work Teams Organizing

2011-04-03T22:19:00.004-04:00

We have several projects lining up, now that Spring is here.Winter took its toll on the new rail bed and a solution is being designed.Nature and water are hard to fight sometimes.This is the result of a small stream becoming a meandering river during the winter's heavy thaw. This hole is a result of the groundhog who is refusing to be displaced.
We have to work on a solution to this problem also.

We are looking for workers to rake top soil to support the berm of the trail surface.
We will put up about 400 feet of field fence along the pond area near Mill Creek,
and start re-identifying locations for the educational signs at the Municipal Park Nature Trail.
Watch for a work day soon.

If you are looking for some outdoor activity, or can put a team together, contact us at lvtrail@gmail.com

Biggest Looser - Pet Edition

2011-03-09T13:29:00.006-05:00

Its already underway, but its not too late to join!

Our Ligonier Y and the Loyalhanna Veterinary Clinic have a twist on the Biggest Looser competition. Here is what's found on the Ligonier Y home page.

It's a twist!
Join our Biggest Loser - Pet Edition Competition! Please note, you do NOT need to have a pet. You do NOT have to lose weight. You can still participate!

Dr. Croft informed us that "Our first walk in Ligonier (in the rain) we had 18 hardy walkers and their faithful dogs."For 6 weeks starting Sat Mar 5 thru April 9 at 1 pm there will be Dog Walks to promote people and their dogs to get out and walk. Anyone can sign up at the Y for a one time fee of $5. If they want to enter the Biggest Looser part of the walk, one could win a prize for the greatest % BW lost, combined pet and owner.The Clinic will also offer a weekly door prize and free consultation on their pets weight if this is an issue. Dr. Croft, Dr Helman or Dr Springer will be at each walk to answer questions.

Mostly it is to have FUN with your pet.

Mar 12 walk will be at Antiochian Village
Mar 19 - Cook TWP Comm Center
Mar 26 - Linn Run State Park
Apr 2 - Ligonier Camp and Conf Ctr
Apr 9 - Powdermill Nature CenterYou can sign up at each location. Check YMCA website or call them.

Later in summer Dr. Helman and Dr. Croft will do a Trial Pet First Aid Course and then 1 or 2 trail hikes in association with the YMCA.
http://www.ligonierymca.org/

See the Biggest Looser link.

Bike Maintenance And Fitting Tips

2011-02-24T12:22:00.007-05:00

This time of year we start itching to do outdoor activities like biking. For most of us, that means cleaning and tuning the vehicle that has been sitting in the garage getting dusty and rusty.
In order to safely and comfortably ride your bikes, there are a few things you can do:

5 Things to Check Every Time You Ride

How to Fit a Bike - Is This the Right Size for Me?Here are a few more links to get you started on your tune up so that you are ready to go when the snow melts away:
Cleaning Your Bike Chain - Quick and Easy Approach

Four Easy Bike Tune-Up Tricks

If you are local to Ligonier, here is a new business ready to help you tackle your bicycle repairs and questions.

Get your Bike ready for spring!

Bike Fitting

One easy thing to do - wear your helmet.

Public Meeting Presentation of December 6, 2010

2011-01-17T10:08:00.006-05:00

The Ligonier Valley Trail has just created a SlideShare account so that we can share as much information with the community as possible.

The first file is the December 6, 2010 presentation by Todd Brant of GAI for the public meeting on the Feasibility Study.

LVT Presentation 101206

View more presentations from Ligonier Valley Trail.

Darn It All! Damage!

2010-12-29T11:31:00.005-05:00

The heavy rains really saturated Ligonier in November, and we found an area of the trail that received some damage from stream flooding. Thanks to the crew that patched it up, right before the Thanksgiving holiday. The neighbors weren't stopped from pushing their strollers on the trail as it was.
Smiles still abound!
Now with snow and ice on the ground, watch your step.

Public Meeting For The Ligonier Valley Trail and Bikeway Survives the Snow!

2010-12-07T14:38:00.005-05:00

... As the did the over twenty five brave souls who attended last night's event.

Thank you to all who assisted and participated to make it a well rounded experience.

Guest Speaker, David Kahley, President and CEO of The Progress Fund

PROGRAM

Welcome - Sharon Detar – Ligonier Township Recreation Board President

The Trail Town Program, and the economic benefits of trails and bikeways - David Kahley, President and CEO of The Progress Fund

FEASIBILTY STUDY RESULTS - Todd D. Brant, RLA, ASLA, CLARB , Landscape ArchitectureGIA Consultants, Inc. – Consulting Engineers

Thanks - Rose Stepnick, Project Manager

Displays presented by our GUESTS

Loyalhanna Watershed Association - Drew Banas, Associate Director

Ligonier Valley Y – Ben Wright, Executive Director

Trout Unlimited – Monty Murty, President

Photography and Bicycle Artifact Display by Ray Kinsey

Todd D. Brant, GIA Consultants, Inc. presenting the preliminary study

ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Drew Banas, Associate Director, Loyalhanna Watershed Association

Diane Cipa

Sharon Detar, Bob Gangawere, Bill Bright, Cathi Graham, Elizabeth McCall – Recreation Board

Paul Fry - Director Public Works, Sam Banales, Council – Ligonier Borough

Barbara Golden

Michael Kuzemchak - Laurel Highlands Program Director, Western Pennsylvania Conservancy

Bridget Shirey – Holy Trinity School

Malcom Sias, Westmoreland County Parks and Roads/Regional Trail Corporation

Tracy Stack, DCNR

Rose Stepnick, Project Manager

Many thanks to all our neighbors and friends, who have been resources of information, made offers of property, cooperated with our efforts, and are working with us to advance the trail.

REFRESHMENTS

Friends of the Ligonier Valley Trail - Lynn Thomas (aka The Cake Pop Lady) and Malinda Smidga

MAILINGS

Steven J. Smith

PROJECT PARTNERS

Ligonier Township, Ligonier Borough, and Loyalhanna Watershed Association

PROJECT FUNDED BY

Richard King Mellon Foundation

The Ligonier Valley Trail and Bikeway Public Meeting

2010-11-29T16:11:00.007-05:00

PROJECT PARTNERS
Ligonier Township and Recreation Board
Ligonier Borough
Loyalhanna Watershed Association

Designed and Donated by: www.stevenjsmith.net

Dates To Mark On Your Calendar

2010-11-10T13:16:00.005-05:00

Hello Friends of the Ligonier Valley Trail!

If you have been following, then you know that the rail bed is surfaced and waiting for you to enjoy. There are details to take care of (a fence by the pond, a sign, some landscaping,etc.), but please see the beginning of what we hope will be many miles of trail in Ligonier.

The Recreation Board will meet this Thursday Nov.11 at 6:30 at the Ligonier Township Municipal Building (off RT. 711).

We are currently working on finding a bridge for the Mill Creek abutments, and we are working on aspects of the Phase Two Feasibility Study. We also would like to get teams going to work on the current railbed and the trailhead property.

If you can join us, we would like to hear from anyone who would

1.) like to become part of the Board in 2011; or

2.) would like to help formalize the Friends of the Ligonier Valley Trail and get some project teams going; or

3.) would like to help us at the public meeting for the Feasibility Study on Monday December 6th with set up and refreshments (please mark your calendars to come).

If you cannot make tomorrow's meeting, but are interested in helping, please contact us at lvtrail@gmail.com .
Thank you!

Rose Stepnick, Project Manager
Sharon Detar, President
Bob Gangewere, Vice President

Are We Having Fun Yet?

2010-11-04T15:34:00.010-04:00

Today's rain may be a bit miserable for those wanting to get out, but we hope it is helping the new surface tighten up on the railbed. Recent dry conditions and the wind kept the dust loose and soft. Even so, a couple of youngsters practiced their biking skills on the wide, new trail off People's Road in Ligonier Township.

Love the fact that they are wearing their helmets.
Way to go!

Bridget Shirey of Ligonier Borough, and her mini Schnauzer Louis, catch the last rays of light on the newly surfaced rail bed.

If you get to walk or ride the trail, send us your comments in the section below each post, and photos to lvtrail@gmail.com
We'll post as many as we can.

Railbed Surface Is Completed

2010-10-30T21:59:00.003-04:00

Via an email from Recreation Board member, Bill Bright, the trail surfacing has been completed.
This morning the last load of limestone was delivered and rolled down. Now a light rain to clean up the dustiness and it will be perfect.

Paver At Work

2010-10-28T16:26:00.006-04:00

Just a note: Because of the soft surface on the trail right now, it is not a good time to walk or ride on the rail bed. We hope that by Sunday the work will have been completed.Today we have some interesting - and noisy - video of the paver putting down the layer of crushed limestone.

The first step is to back the truck of stone up to the paver and line it up properly. Then the load is slowly tipped to fill the paver, and the paver operator has to move with him. Or is it the other way around?? Not all the runs are as perfect as this, but it gives you an idea of the capability of these expensive machines. When the truck is empty, he pulls away as the paver continues spreading the stone.

If you like to see this machinery at work, they will have at least one more day to go.
The roller should arrive Saturday to finish the surface.

The Walkers Are Here

2010-10-20T22:40:00.005-04:00

Soon these little folks can bring their bicycles to the trail. For now they have big smiles for a safe place to take a good long walk with mom.

This week-end should see more of the walkers testing the trail.

And this paver should be in use the next few days to complete the surfacing of the rail bed.

First Layer Is Down

2010-10-18T11:48:00.002-04:00

One of the things we didn't count on was deer damage, but there you have it. Another reason we will be creating a trail team to take care of all the little things that need fixing.

Send your name to lvtrail@gmail.com if you will be able to help.

The first layer of stone is down all the way to the abutments. We saw at least two annoyed groundhogs crossing the trail and looking to do damage elsewhere. Another hazard to watch for. The whole trail is walkable now and the next machine has been delivered to put down the crushed limestone that will be our final surface.

Continued Progress On the Railbed

2010-10-14T14:39:00.005-04:00

The rail bed facing People's Road, ... ...and facing Ligonier Borough. The removal of sod to level the trail is close to completion. The limestone base is almost completed also.

Four Days And Some Sun

2010-10-08T11:08:00.007-04:00

We continue to see the trail grow.

It looks even better under a blue sky.

The Supancic work crew are surely please to see the sun.

We can now see some progress from the bridge side too.

Its Fort Ligonier Days here in town.
Grand weather for it.
Hope you can come!

Real Progress On the Rail Bed

2010-10-06T18:47:00.005-04:00

A third day of rain, and a third day of trail work. The lining fabric arrived today, as well as part of the gravel.

We've got more work ahead, but its moving along steadily - like the rain!

This is real friends!

Construction Is Underway!

2010-10-04T17:45:00.010-04:00

A bit of a wet start, but sod is being removed on the first day of construction of OUR TRAIL! In the next few days, we should see any remaining rail road ties being removed,
and the base of the trail being graded and prepared for its lime stone surface. The smoke you see is the burning of a truck load of rubbish that was dumped sometime before Saturday afternoon. And they left it right where the "Friends of the Ligonier Valley Trail" did such a great clean up in May.
We hope this doesn't become a habit in the future. Watch here for continued progress, and send your pictures with you on the trail if you pass by.

Construction Can Begin!

2010-08-25T14:48:00.006-04:00

After a long wait, the guide wires at the center of the rail bed have been raised and attached to a telephone pole. This is so that they won't present an obstacle during construction, or future maintenance.

Excavation and construction of the trail surface begins next week, and the stone for the surface should be delivered and rolled the week after Labor Day. Lets hope the weather cooperates so that everything goes quickly and smoothly.

Railbed Update

2010-08-11T08:59:00.007-04:00

Its been a short while since we put out a request for a volunteer to help along the rail bed for the excavation. We have a volunteer, but we can use more. Contact us at lvtrail@gmail.com

The work has been on hold because of the need to add a pole in the middle of the rail bed section that has guide wires angling to the ground. They can be seen in yellow covers, behind, and to the left, of the group of walkers in the photo below.Allegheny Power has had incidents in the past where they have become a problem, and preferred that we block them or replace them with another pole. The paperwork has been done, and the job will be scheduled to add the pole, and hopefully be completed in less than two weeks.

We now need to get back on the calendar for the excavator to finally come and surface the trail. We thank him for his patience, and yours too. We know that many of you are anxious to see this first portion completed.

Kick Off Meeting for Phase Two

2010-08-03T11:22:00.006-04:00

Trail Friends:

GAI Consultants will hold the Kick-off Meeting for the Ligonier Valley Trail Phase Two Feasibility study at 6:30 PM on Thursday August 5th. It will be held at the Loyalhanna Watershed Office in Ligonier. Representatives from several organizations and communities will be present.

This presentation by GAI Consultants, will already be full of information and ideas.

The project should take about six months, and a public meeting will be scheduled later this Fall.

Please let us know if you would like to be notified about this meeting.

Email us at lvtrail@gmail.com

July Volunteer Opportunity

2010-07-01T11:43:00.005-04:00

The good news is that the excavator for the trail, plans to start work on the rail bed in the next few weeks. Always weather determined of course.

We asked if there is anything that we could do to help move the job along, and there is.We can use a few people to be ready to spend a few hours, or a day, with a book under the tree at People's Road, waiting for the trucks delivering the gravel. Your job will be to show them where to go, and give them instructions dictated by the excavator. Basically, "Back down here. Dump there". Very simple, but very helpful.

Please contact us via email at lvtrail@gmail.com. Give us days and times you are available. Email and/or phone number to keep you updated as time gets closer.

Things should get going in a week or two.
Thanks!

Thank You Again!

2010-06-28T19:16:00.011-04:00

Did you receive this card in the mail?

*If you did, we want to thank you again for your
participation in our
Charter Membership Campaign.
*If you didn't, and should have, we would like you to contact us to verify addresses, spelling, etc., at lvtrail@gmail.com

For now, our sincerest thanks for becoming part of the dream. The Board and "Friends" would like to thank Steve and Deb Smith for designing and donating the effort and cost of creating and mailing the notes and gifts.
Every good idea helps our cause, and this was terrific.

www.stevenjsmith.net

Feasibility Study Proposal Reviews

2010-06-10T22:30:00.007-04:00

Last month the **Partners involved in the trail building, received five good proposals for the Phase Two Feasibility Study of the Ligonier Valley Trail.

After two weeks of electronic comments, small group discussions, and a review meeting tonight, the Ligonier Township Recreation Board members, with assistance from the community and Partner review team, narrowed down their options, and plan face to face interviews for final clarification and selection.The tree at the Peoples Road end of the rail bed is alive.

A late "bloomer", it was almost taken down during the clean up.

Many thanks go to all who took their time to read the proposals, take notes, and offer productive comments. This was a real collaborative effort.

**Ligonier Township, Ligonier Borough, and the Loyalhanna Watershed Association.

More Ligonier Valley Trail News

2010-06-02T15:49:00.010-04:00

From the Pittsburgh Tribune Review:

22-mile Trail Would Link Ligonier Sites

By Jewels Phraner
LIGONIER ECHO
Thursday, May 27, 2010

'Gangewere sees the trail as a way to benefit businesses in the Ligonier Valley and bring the community together.

"Ligonier, like all these small Western Pa. towns, was not designed with alleys and highways that are safe for people to walk or ride a bike. We want to develop safe routes through the valley," he said. "It should be easy to go from Weller Field to the soccer fields near Peoples Road or the country market." '

For the rest of the article click here: http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/westmoreland/s_683198.html

First Friends Trail Clean Up

2010-05-22T17:00:00.008-04:00

This is where we started at 11:00AM today, with threatening skies overhead.

Bob Gangewere, Recreation Board VP.
As requested, everyone came well prepared with tools, and started working.The first task was clipping, sawing and clearing out the saplings and brambles that had grown over, and around the pile. New cuttings were stacked on one pile, while old boards and lumber made another. Dave's machete made quick work of the thicker branches. Dee cleaned up, after the big stuff was moved.The cuttings and rotten lumbers piles began to grow, and then the cinder blocks started to appear.A little chain saw activity made the job easier, with Dave clearing as Bob cut.
Way to come prepared, Gentlemen! When all was done, a substantial cinder block pile was dug out from the middle of the shrubbery and dirt. After only one hour, the tree area was cleared, piles were separated for recycling or trash, and we had time for a trail walk, JUST before the rain came pouring down.Friends Trail Clean Up Team

Thanks go to: Dee and Bob Kuban, Dave Tetkoski , Sharon Detar - Recreation Board President, Bob Gangewere, and Rose Stepnick, Project Manager.

A JOB WELL DONE!

May 22 Trail Clean Up Update

2010-05-19T08:30:00.004-04:00

Our 11:00AM to 1:00PM Saturday clean up task will require a few more tools if you can bring them, and the more we have working, the sooner the job will be done.A bow saw or large loppers will be needed for some of the more vigorous saplings and shrubs that are surrounding the pile. Clippers for the brambles and other growth will be handy. Be sure to wear heavy work gloves and work clothes for your protection from thorns and whatever the pile holds. We plan to have the tent and sign up, to help you find the work area.

Directions and further instructions are in the May 17 posting below.

Trail Clean Up

2010-05-18T09:56:00.005-04:00

The Ligonier Township Recreation Board, and the Friends of the Ligonier Valley Trail plan a trail clean up on Saturday May 22 from 11:00AM to 1:00PM at the corner of the railbed on Peoples Road. We will be separating and cleaning up a pile of large logs, fencing, cinder blocks, and rubbish so that it can be properly disposed of.Volunteers need to come prepared with work gloves and tools. Clippers, rakes, shovels, and wheelbarrows will all be needed. Please bring what you can.

Please comment here or email lvtrail@gmail.com if you plan to come. Thanks!

This is recommended as an adult project, as much of the material is large and heavy. Also, there are no bathroom facilities nearby.

Directions: From the Diamond take 711 North about one mile. Turn left onto Peoples Road. Follow Peoples Road about 1/2 mile to the railbed on the left.

Participate in National Bike Month

2010-05-06T12:05:00.008-04:00

Events are planned in Pittsburgh, and around the country.

National Bike WEEK is also May 17 - 21, which includes
National Bike-to-Work Day, Friday May 21.http://www.bikeleague.org/programs/bikemonth/events.php

Pedal Pittsburgh 2010 will be Sunday, May 16^th at the SouthSide Works!

A ride as unique as the city, Pedal Pittsburgh annually attracts more than 2,000 participants ranging from families with children and recreational riders to fitness enthusiasts. Participants can choose from six courses ranging from 6- to 60-miles, this year starting and finishing at SouthSide Works. To register for more information Pedal Pittsburgh 2010, please click on the link. http://www.pedalpittsburgh.org/

Please be aware that numbers and helmets are REQUIRED for this event.

Ligonier Valley Trail News In Latrobe Bulletin

2010-03-24T12:26:00.011-04:00

The Latrobe Bulletin published a Page One article on March 10, 2010. With permission of the Editor, we are reproducing it here. Ligonier Twp. Rec Board eyes spring start for rails-to-trails

By Jennifer Sopko
For The Bulletin

Rose Stepnick and Sharon Detar left the Ligonier Township Supervisors meeting Tuesday night grinning and enthusiastic about springtime possibilities.

As president of and project manager for the Ligonier Township Recreation Board, respectively, Detar and Stepnick have spearheaded the board's work with the Ligonier Valley Trail System (LVTS), an extended hiking and biking trail, with little noticeable progress until now.

"We've been working really hard with nothing to show for it for a really long time," Stepnick said following the meeting. She was pleased that the supervisors took action on two resolutions she hopes will be catalysts for progress with the trail network.

The supervisors approved bids for the materials and labor involved in surfacing a portion of the former Ligonier Valley Rail Road rail bed stretching from Mill Creek behind Weller Field to Peoples Road ‹ Phase One of the LVTS, also known as a rails-to-trails project. The low bids accepted were $8,480 from Supancic Excavating Inc for labor and construction, and $8,350 from Ligonier Construction Co. for limestone. Stepnick said she hoped to get on the companies' work lists for this spring.

The LVTS also will benefit from a donation of property to the township from a north Ligonier Township couple. Bernard and Sandra Harr have donated a 310- by 100-foot parcel of land adjacent to the rail bed near Peoples Road, with the stipulation that the township dedicate the land for recreational purposes. The board of supervisors approved a resolution empowering the officers to take the necessary steps to accept the donation. Township solicitor Judith Ciszek said that the board would consider the property as a possible trailhead parking area given its close proximity to the trail and that the supervisors would be able to create a deed with the original owners' input and adjust the language if desired.

Stepnick and Detar both spoke after the meeting about the scope of the LVTS and the time and effort the recreation board and community has invested into it so far. Over the past three years, the recreation board has organized repairs and cleanup of the rails-to-trails area, including the installation of drainpipes. Detar explained that after consulting with other trail-building initiatives, farming organizations and a local organic farm, the recreation board has decided to install landscape fabric over the rail bed before grading and surfacing the trail as a more organic and stable alternative to using vegetation control spray on the area.

"We tried to go with the best price, be good neighbors, and hopefully have a trail that's going to be low maintenance." Stepnick summarized.

The recreation board's other ongoing projects with the LVTS are the acquisition of recycled materials for a bridge that will extend the trail over Mill Creek and the pursuit of grants and other means of financial support for a feasibility study of Phase Two of the project. This next phase will involve potential extensions of the trail through and beyond the Ligonier Valley.

The supervisors briefly discussed a few additional items on Tuesday night, including their appointment of Ron Dorazio, former Ligonier Township police chief, as assistant emergency management coordinator for the township.
They also announced two upcoming events: A public hearing regarding an application by Festival Fun Parks for a cell tower on Clark Hollow Road, to be held 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 23, at the township municipal building, and the annual Dumpster Day, scheduled for 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 2, at the recycling center on Old Route 30 West.

As seen on Page One of the Latrobe Bulletin, March 10, 2010. Continued on Page 3.

Thanks for the research done by Jennifer Sopko for a more complete article.
Thanks to Editor Steve Kittey for allowing us to share this news.

Photos by R. Stepnick.

Regional Trail Corporation - Annual Retreat 2010

2010-03-11T14:51:00.014-05:00

On January 30, Sharon Detar, Bob Gangewere and I represented the Ligonier Valley Trail at the Regional Trail Corporation's (RTC) Annual Retreat, attended by over 70 people from the region.The three of us we were able to attend all the workshops presented that day, and gained much knowledge to bring back to our trail. **(See description of sessions following the post)The River Is Our Resource was the title of the presentation where the Laurel Highlands Initiative was included. Brad Clemenson of the Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) explained how the rivers are being developed as water trails.Kristin Sewak, Director, Natural Biodiversity, spoke of sustainable trail maintenance. We plan the have this organization involved in our trail head development. Edward K. Muller began his presentation with a slide show of pictures covering 30 years of trail development that were taken by co-author, Paul g. Wiegman.The presentation featured The Uncommon Passage: Traveling Through History on the Great Allegheny Passage, a book that should be included in everyone's library.We look forward to being include in a future slide show of success in trail development! The retreat was a great opportunity for inspiration and knowledge from experienced trail builders. Our own Bob Gangewere contributed to a section of the book, and added his thoughts to the main presentation. Congratulations Bob!
http://www.upress.pitt.edu/BookDetails.aspx?bookId=35972
Our thanks to Malcolm Sias, President of the RTC , for including us in this retreat. He has also been a huge source of information and advice for the Ligonier Valley Trail development.
Ligonier Valley Trail had the opportunity to display its maps of the proposed Phase Two, with Phase One included. We generated interest and advice, as well as support for our efforts. It was a good opportunity to talk to people about the future we see for Ligonier and how it connects to other projects in the area.

-------------------------

REGIONAL TRAIL CORPORATION - ANNUAL RETREAT

JANUARY 30, 2010 (Saturday)

12:00-1:30 Lunch w/ Keynote Speakers

The Uncommon Passage: Traveling Through History on the Great Allegheny Passage

CONCURRENT SESSIONS

The River is our Resource

Did you know that there is an active water trail program in PA? Much of our trail system is along the recently completed Youghiogheny River Water Trail. This session will discuss interaction between the land and water trail and environmental issues related to the river.

Trail Monitoring Program

Trail monitors are important to make sure that our users are having a good and safe time. Trail monitors are our ambassadors on the trails. Without monitors our trail system would not be successful. This is a mini-session of our Trail Monitor Training.

Trail Maintenance

We all struggle with keeping our trail in good condition. Do you know how often to mow or what to do if you have a major washout? This session is about sharing best practices to keep our trail in tip top shape. Please take this opportunity to talk to our panel of experts.

Fundraising

There are a lot of small grant opportunities to out there to help the RTC do our job better. Whether you need a small amount of funding to resurface a piece of trail or a large capital grant please come to learn about what is out there and how to go about raising the funds.

Trail Towns Program

The Trail Towns Program is having a major impact on the towns that are along our trails. Come to this session to hear about the major accomplishments and some initiatives that we can all learn from to make our trails better.

Modes of Transport Policy

Our trails are open for non-motorized use. We have developed a policy to formalize what “modes of transport” are permissible. Please be a part of this interactive discussion to help us make a good decision for future use.

Dog Park Research

2010-02-09T11:58:00.002-05:00

Last June, Ligonier Valley Trail blog posted a general information article on dog parks.

The input today on Ligonier Living is what we need to have if the project becomes reality, because if we put time, money and effort into it, we want it to be a success for the dog owners and the community around it.
Knowing about what has failed is as important as knowing what works.

We hope to include this part of the Phase Two Feasibility Study as we go to bid for a consultant this spring. More comments are appreciated also. Any links that are helpful are welcomed. Positive, negative, but constructive, please!

Understand that this is an idea that does not have a place yet, so there is time to do a lot of thinking and planning.

Dog Parks
http://ligoniervalleytrail.blogspot.com/search/label/dog%20parks

Charlie Simpson: One Bike, Five Miles, Seven Years Old, and Hundreds of Thousands For Haiti

2010-01-27T17:48:00.014-05:00

Who can't love this story?!Boy, 7, raises $240,000 for Haiti appeal(Read more)
Simpson from Fulham, west London had hoped to raise just £500 for UNICEF's earthquake appeal by cycling eight kilometers (five miles)around a local park.

"My name is Charlie Simpson. I want to do a sponsored bike ride for Haiti because there was a big earthquake and loads of people have lost their lives," said Simpson on his JustGiving page, a fundraising site which launched his efforts.

Charlie's Fundraising for Haiti page

http://www.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/europe/01/25/uk.boy.charity.haiti/index.html

Just five miles by a little boy will do so much.

VIDEO OF CHARLIE SIMPSON FROM ABC NEWS

http://abcnews.go.com/video/playerIndex?id=9660300