Erie, PA (September 3, 2020) - Asbury Woods has completed phase one of a three phase improvement project to a parcel of property located just south of the entrance to the Nature Center. This unique meadow setting is a small, yet interesting and peaceful portion of the property and trail network.
Once used as a baseball diamond, previous restoration work and the seeding of native flowers and tall grasses transformed it into a functioning meadow ecosystem. The area attracts a diversity of animal species and visitors are likely to spot monarch butterflies, bluebirds, a variety of insects and spiders, and more that all thrive in healthy meadows. Unfortunately, lack of upkeep and lack of signage has made it an under-utilized and disconnected portion of the Asbury Woods property. Thanks to a grant from the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority and donations made through the completed Preserving a Legacy Capital Campaign, Asbury Woods is investing in updates to this parcel.
Phase one is nearly complete and includes the re-establishment of a portion of the Eagle Trail that connects to the meadow and Field Trail. This section of trail fell into disrepair and has been overgrown and impassable for several years. A dedicated group of Asbury Woods trail maintenance volunteers spent several days reopening this trail and resurfacing a small bridge with new boards. We encourage visitors to use this section of newly reopened trail because use by hikers is the best way to ensure the trail remains established and the forest doesn’t overtake it again.
The second phase will include the removal of old, broken asphalt and the establishment of a clearly defined parking lot. Currently the asphalt gives the appearance that vehicles can drive towards the trails and there are no designated parking spaces. The layout of the new parking lot will reduce the amount of impervious surface area and return a section of the area to grass.
Finishing touches in phase three will include roadside signage to clearly indicate it is part of Asbury Woods, a kiosk with trail map and information, landscaping and new picnic tables.
Projected completion date of the entire project is November but we hope visitors will explore the recently reopened section of trail now. Fall is a beautiful time for a walk in the woods and the meadow.
Click here for the trail map to view the meadow loop, which is connected to the Field Trail.