Long awaited Ohio to Erie Trail section completed at Newell Recreation Preserve


GRANVILLE, OHIO (July 13, 2022) The Newell Recreation Preserve paved multi-use trail was formally dedicated on June 25, 2022 with representatives from Licking, Knox and Delaware Counties in addition to local mayors, township officials, the Newell family and many others. Attendees also included a national representative of the Great American Rail-Trail Project, commonly known as the Rails to Trails Conservancy.

The project fills a one mile gap between Delaware and Knox County trails. This connection was first envisioned 30 years ago. The Ohio to Erie Trail (OTET) stretches from Cincinnati to Cleveland, 326 miles. The day included ‘Trail-apalooza’ events from Sunbury to Gambier. There were several hundred persons celebrating this major milestone in the OTET trail connection.

The trail was built in conjunction with the Knox County Park District. The property was obtained from the Newell family by Licking County and then given to the Licking Park District. The Park District has worked with the US Fish and Wildlife Service to plant 33 acres of pollinator flowers and prairie grass. The site also boasts a natural vernal wetland and parking area to complement the recreational trail connection.


This project was made possible by many organizations and funding agencies including; Ohio Public Works – Clean Ohio Trail Fund, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, the Newell family, Licking and Knox County parks departments, Licking County Commissioners and private donations.

Visit the website www.lickingparkdistrict.com to see all the programs and opportunities your Licking Park District offers.
Questions? Contact us at 740.587.2535 or by email at: Info@LickingParkDistrict.com

Licking Park District’s Vision Statement
It is the Vision of the Licking Park District to provide parks, paths, and trails of the highest quality to the residents of Licking County. Our goal is to maintain and improve existing facilities while pursuing opportunities for expansion. We provide passive recreational opportunities for the health, wellness, and education of our residents using resources that include public and private collaborations.

Licking Park District’s Mission
The mission of the Licking Park District (LPD) is to acquire, manage, preserve, and conserve natural areas within Licking County, while protecting wildlife and local history in a manner that enriches our communities and provides access to diverse parks, educational opportunities, and health and wellness activities.

The Licking Park District manages over 1,600 acres of parkland on 12 sites and manages over 46 miles of paved multi-use trails across Licking County. The Licking Park District office, located at Infirmary Mound Park, is easily accessed from Rt. 37.

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