12.16.2009: A Greenways Trails Summit, sponsored by Monroe County Planning Commission, was
held at the Monroe County Conservation District December 16, 2009. Present were volunteer members
of various multi municipal park systems throughout the county, members of trail, mountain bike, and Pocono
Outdoor Club members. Presenters shared information about the trail systems that are currently
being developed by Stroud Region Open Space, HJP Parks, West End, Pocono Area Recreation, Top
of the Mountain, The Cherry Creek Access project in Smithfield and Delaware Water Gap, and Eastern Monroe Regional Parks. The Upper Brodhead/Paradise Creek Greenway
Plan, including Mr. Airy Public Access Trails, were presented by McLane Associates, Trail and Park
planners from Scranton. The Upper Brodhead/Paradise Creek Greenway Plan is being developed with
participation from Mt. Airy.
Points that were emphasized during the discussion included the efficient use of the original 25 million
dollar county bond. Initially requiring a 1-1 match, these dollars have been matched 2-1, and in some cases, 3-1, for a total outlay of 75 million dollar. The original bond was intended primarily for acquisition, with small dollar amounts available for planning. 17,000 acres have been acquired as open space, conservation easements and agricultural easements. Also, volunteer trail building efforts have saved municipalities lots of money. Residents interested in trail building are encouraged to contact
their municipalities for information on their township Parks Committee, or the Pocono Outdoor Club, which sponsors year round weekly activities and trail advocacy, at 570-421-2968, www.poconooutdoorclub.org
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