EAST HARDWICK – Wetlands flagging, the first step on the project plan to build a Lamoille Valley Rail Trail [LVRT] rest stop and trailhead in East Hardwick, has been completed, according to an East Hardwick Neighborhood Organization (EHNO) update. “Arrowwood Environmental reported there are no wetlands in the [LVRT] right-of-way between Stevens Lane and Brickhouse Road.”
“The documents and tools the EHNO board will need to administer the $49,714 Rural Trails Program grant for the trailhead are now in place, including the purchase of Quickbooks for financial reporting and adoption of required financial and operations policies,” EHNO said. They can now begin working with the Town of Hardwick on zoning approval for a pavilion and an RFP for base materials.
EHNO reported that the Hardwick LVRT Committee met recently and reviewed progress on amenities for the trailhead. Garbage cans and a bike repair station are on hand, as are a kiosk and the base for an interpretive sign, which EHNO has received a grant for. The town has received a grant for a picnic table and a bike rack is available through an amenities grant from the Northeast Vermont Development Association (NVDA). It’s not yet clear yet whether a Port-A-John will be included among the amenities.
Amenities can be installed after the base for the trailhead is completed, as part of the Rural Trails Grant.
EHNO reports the date of Saturday, October 25, has been set for a reception at Overlook Park to celebrate a Vermont Roadside Historic Marker being placed there. The reception will be followed by the Annual EHNO Business Meeting.
Minutes of the August EHNO Meeting are available online at https://ehno5.wordpress.com/meetings/
Paul Fixx is editor of The Hardwick Gazette and lives in Hardwick.
