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NEW CUMBERLAND - A Newell resident approached the Hancock County Commission last week about the possibility of establishing a recreational trail in her community.
Liz Lundberg attended Thursday's commission meeting, seeking input and support in the possibility of establishing such a trail, pointing to similar projects in the area which have used former rail lines or other open properties.
"I see so many people walking up and down the road," Lundberg said, offering concerns for safety of residents.
Having lived in Newell since 2000 and recently retired, Lundberg said she feels it would be a worthwhile project to take on.
"I thought, I have time and I've always wanted to make a contribution to the community," she said.
Lundberg noted she already has approached members of the Newell Community Improvement Coalition, a group of residents which has organized a variety of fundraisers and community activities for the benefit of the town.
She said she also has approached Del. Pat McGeehan on the matter, and would like to see a volunteer organization formed to fundraise and oversee the trail if it moves forward.
Commission President Jeff Davis pointed out there had been other groups suggest such a project in the past, offering to connect Lundberg with some of those residents.
"They may be able to offer more information," Davis said.
Commissioner Eron Chek also recommended Lundberg reach out to the Brooke-Hancock-Jefferson Metropolitan Planning Commission and Weirton resident Dave Cline on the matter.
Cline has been among local volunteers to maintain the Panhandle Recreational Trail in Weirton over the years, as well as being part of a coalition looking into the possibility of establishing an interconnected nationwide system of such recreational trails.
The BHJ also has been part of studies for such a project, with officials previously looking at ways to connect existing trails in Weirton and Steubenville.
"Together, they have a lot of resources," Chek said.