What is the purpose of the study?

This study aims to create a well-informed Master Plan for a new multi-use, recreational trail system in Lewis and Jefferson Counties. Much of the trail system will be on recently acquired railroad tracks that will connect communities throughout the region, such as Lowville, Croghan, and Carthage.
The Rail Trail Master Plan, led by Creighton Manning, will provide a unique opportunity for residents, stakeholders, and leaders to shape a key recreational asset in their community. Community engagement will be important in the making of this plan to identify potential opportunities and ideas for this rails to trails conversion.

What are the goals of the study?

The Lewis County Rail Trail project will culminate in a long-range Master Plan that will:● Inventory existing and planned destinations● Identify future recreational trail corridors throughout Lewis County● Understand the various opportunities, constraints, environmental factors, and other relevant data points that are associated with the proposed rail to trail conversion● Engage the local community on what they want to see in this plan

Who is involved?

The Lewis County Rail Trail Master Plan project involves a wide array of officials, stakeholders, and community members. Overall, project teams are broken into two committees, the Core Team and the Steering Committee.
The Core Team will guide the overall project and includes individuals from Creighton Manning and the County who are jointly managing the study. A separate Steering Committee will provide further insight into challenges and opportunities to guide decision making at key steps of the project.