Presented by:   Jackson Center United Methodist   Larger, Inc. Park improvements highlight year Have you been in your parks lately? According to Richard Millhouse, Shelby County Park District director, many improvements were made to the parks in 2001. His report follows: We have been making a lot of improvements/additions to all your parks in 2001. If you have noticed them, please let us know what you think. You can call, write or e-mail us. Here is a list of some of the highlights of the past year and a peek at some of what's to come. Lockington Reserve At the Lockington Reserve we started by installing a new Bluebird trail in the spring. There was one set up many years ago, which was in dire need of repair and updating. With the help of Dick Thoma of the Ohio Bluebird Society, we took out what was left of the old trail and established a new one. It turned out to be very successful for the Bluebirds. Loop work continues Next we started, (or continued, depending Oh how you look at it), the loop portion of the paved trail going behind the Dam on the East Side-of the reserve. Many years ago, a paved trail was started behind the Dam, mainly for handicap accessibility. When the money ran out, the trail ended. It was intended to be a loop trail going through pasture and woods. That trail is now open for use. The next phase will include paving the new gravel section, and repaving the original section. That phase should be completed within the next two years. Also on the East Side at the Lockington Reserve we have started giving the shelter house and restrooms a new color of paint. The painting is not quite complete but will be soon. Future improvements for the West Side of the Reserve will consist of the reconfiguration and paving of the parking lot and trail widening. Hardin Park Two improvements were performed at Hardin Park. The first was in cooperation with the Shelby County Historical Society. An historical marker was placed next to our bulletin board giving a brief history of Hardin. We also had the gravel pull off improved. The area was leveled off with the road and paved. This summer saw several additional trees being added to line the drive in Bornhorst Woods. Miami-Erie Canal Trail On "National Trails Day" in June a group of volunteers removed broken glass and stumps on the section of trail between Pampel and Dawson. Over a dozen bags were taken away. This will make it a cleaner and safer trail for anyone hiking that portion. Not to mention our lawn mower tires and blades! By early 2002 the 5-mile trail will be completely opened to foot traffic thereby finishing phase 1 of the trail development. Other 2002 work will address erosion control and bridge placement where necessary. Also, we have been in the process of redeveloping our Citizen Advisory Committee. This committee allows an open, honest exchange of comments, criticism, ideas, complements, etc. from the citizens of Shelby County to the Park District and from the Park District to the citizens. Citizen involvement It allows interested citizens to become involved in the growth, development and direction of the Park District. It is set up to be a diverse group of all ages, classes, occupations, genders, races, etc. If you would be interested in serving, please contact us for more information. Another general addition is that of a web site for the Park District. Early 2002 should see the completion of this project. Stay tuned to further details. As always, if you have any questions, comments or would like to help out, don't hesitate to contact us at shelbyconark@voager.net 497-7171 or 773-4818.