NEWARK (May 20, 2013) – Construction will
begin this week on a connector that will join two existing trail facilities
within the White Clay Creek State Park along Hopkins Road, as part of Governor
Jack Markell’s First State Trails and Pathways Initiative.
The purpose of the project is to create safer conditions for
hikers, bicycle riders, runners and walkers who use the trail system in White
Clay Creek State Park. Improvements
will include creating a separated and protected shoulder within the roadway for
pedestrians and bicyclists.
The project is 0.2 miles in length, located between Creek Road and
the northernmost end of the Pomeroy Trail where it joins Hopkins Road. The
project area crosses the bridge over White Clay Creek.
“By closing the remaining gaps within the 75 miles of trails
around Newark and White Clay Creek State Park, we will further enhance one of
the best outdoor experiences in the region for cyclists, runners, and hikers,”
said DNREC Secretary Collin O’Mara.
“Our goal has always been to create and sustain multiple modes of
transportation in Delaware,” said DelDOT Secretary Shailen Bhatt. “The opening
of the connector in White Clay Creek State Park will provide more options for
pedestrians and bicyclists in the region.”
DelDOT is overseeing all of the project development and
construction, and administering the construction of the project through a
private contractor.
Trail users come up from Newark via the Pomeroy Trail into White
Clay Creek State Park. The Pomeroy and Creek Road form a 3.4 mile loop
within the 3,044 acre park.
Construction is underway to pave portions of road shoulders and install
flexible delineators, as well as a low railing on the bridge walls. In
addition, pedestrian crosswalks will define crossings, and signage will note
that pedestrians and bicyclists will be crossing Hopkins Road.
The project is expected to take several weeks to complete.
For information about projects in the Governor’s Trails and Pathways
Initiative visit www.trails.delaware.gov.
Contact: Beth Shockley, DNREC Public Affairs, 302-739-9902
Vol. 43, No. 210