IT IS OFFICIAL: Lewis County acquires railroad property to advance trails initiative

LOWVILLE- The Lewis County Board of Legislators is pleased to announce their latest milestone by officially acquiring the former railroad property as part of a long-term vision for its trails initiative.

“This is a major step forward, but it’s just the beginning,” said the county manager, Timothy hunt.

“We’re committed to doing this the right way, with careful planning, environmental responsibility and strong community involvement.”

With the purchase now complete, officials say the next step is to re-engage with Alta Planning + Design, the consulting firm chosen by Lewis County Legislators in 2023, to begin developing a comprehensive master plan for this new addition to the County’s trail system.

While no immediate construction will begin, the County is expected to work closely with Alta and their teaming partners to develop the master plan.

The master plan development process will include ample opportunities for public input, including, but not limited to, community engagement sessions to gather feedback and ideas from residents, landowners, and trail users.

The master plan will also include environmental and structural assessments, trail feasibility, concept engineering and order of magnitude cost estimates, and will develop project priorities through a comprehensive master planning effort.

"These are all critical steps to ensure the project is safe, sustainable, and beneficial for all," county officials said in a statement.

"Once the Plan is finalized, the county is committed to following it as a roadmap for project prioritization and implementation."

Be sure to check out Lewis County's 'Rail to Trail' webpage. 

Genesee Valley Transportation image.