Bike trail more expensive, but remains under budget

By CARL E. FEATHER - Staff Writer - cfeather@starbeacon.com
Star Beacon

June 04, 2009 11:22 pm

— JEFFERSON — Ashtabula County commissioners Thursday approved a $20,097 change order for the construction of a bike trail at Geneva State Park.
The change order, requested by the county’s Department of Community Services, raises the cost of the project to $447,551. Commissioners budgeted $450,000 for the project, which is being funded with $300,000 from a Clean Ohio Grant, $100,000 from a community development block grant and $50,000 from the Convention Facilities Authority. CFA is funded by the county bed tax, set aside for lodge debt and improvements.
The change order became necessary because original specifications for the bridge over Cowles Creek did not call for replacement of the substructure framework. However, as the design of the new bridge developed, it became evident the existing framework would not provide the correct elevation and would have to be replaced.
In addition, the existing handrails on the bridge are out of code for the height requirement and also must be replaced. The changes were reviewed by Ashtabula County Engineer Tim Martin.
The mile-long bike trail is expected to be completed later this month. It will link the Lodge and Conference Center with the park marina and cabins. Paralleling Lake Erie, it will be the only trail of its kind between Cleveland and Erie, Pa., and is expected to draw tourists to the area, as well as give lodge guests another reason to stay an extra night or two.
The lodge’s new room-key cards feature a photo of a bicycle on them to reinforce the amenity’s availability. Use of the trail will not be limited to lodge guests, however.