Planned improvements along the Lackawanna Trail between Elmira and Wellsburg are finally under way.
The 2.5-mile portion of the trail between Eldridge Park and the Interstate 86 East Water Street exit in the city, which opened in 2013, is paved.
But the stretch that follows the abandoned railroad right-of-way from Elmira to Wellsburg along the Chemung River is still dirt, and that section is where work is taking place.
Work started June 12, and motorists on I-86 might have noticed the heavy equipment at points along the trail.
“We started our improvement project to repair embankments, put new fencing in and pave the trail when we’re done,” Chemung County Public Works Commissioner Andy Avery said. “Once it’s done, we’ll have seven to eight miles of (paved) trail from the Lowman Crossover to Eldridge Park. It’s a nice amenity for residents in the area.
“We’re also putting some viewing areas up, and a small parking lot at the Lowman Crossover. We’re also doing some timber fencing in different areas, split rail fencing in areas that need more protection.”
Edger Enterprises is the primary contractor on the project, which is scheduled to be finished by Aug. 27. Portions of the trail will be closed to the public in the meantime because of the heavy equipment moving around, Avery said.
Chemung County Legislator Rodney J. Strange, whose district much of the trail is located, says it has been a longtime coming but area residents are looking forward to its completion. “I am excited that this trail is almost done. Many of my constituents have been waiting for this to be completed for the past couple years so they can put it to good use,” Strange said.
Much of the Lackawanna Trail between Elmira and Wellsburg will be closed for the next few months during a major improvement project.
If the weather cooperates, it’s possible the work will be done sooner, he said.
The total cost of the project is about $640,000. Federal funds will cover 80 percent of the price tag, Avery said.
Chemung River Friends has been a partner in development of the Lackawanna Trail from Day 1.
The improvements will make a valuable asset even more attractive, River Friends Executive Director Jim Pfiffer said.
“The trail offers a great way to get some fresh air and exercise and to enjoy nature and the beautiful scenery. I’m amazed at how many people use the trail for walking, cycling, walking dogs and even cross-country skiing,” Pfiffer said.
“River Friends leads hikes and cross-country ski trips on the trail and the public loves it,” he said. “The city has done a great job of maintaining, improving and marking the trail. It is one of the nicest perks in our community.”