LIBERTY – During the last Liberty Town Board meeting for January, board members approved the State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) for the proposed Parksville O&W Rail Trail connection.

The project would extend the existing Parksville Rail Trail near the intersection of Fox Mountain Road and Old Route 17, creating a new shared-use trail connection and improve pedestrian safety in the area. Following a detailed environmental review, the board accepted a negative declaration, determining that the project will not result in significant adverse environmental impact.

According to the assessment, the proposal includes construction of an asphalt shared-use trail from Fox Mountain Road to the original O&W Railroad, a stone-dust trail running adjacent to the road and installation of a pedestrian bridge over a tributary to the little Beaver Kill. 

The project also calls for a new crosswalk with appropriate signage and striping, along with modifications to an existing parking area at the Parksville rail trail head.

As part of the project, ownership of certain parcels of land would be transferred from the New York State Department of Transportation to the Town of Liberty. Although the overall project area encompasses approximately 28.76 acres, officials noted that only about 0.3 acres would be physically disturbed during construction.

The SEQR review confirmed that the project is consistent with the towns’ comprehensive plan and zoning regulations and aligns with the existing character of the surrounding rural forested and aquatic landscape. 

While wetlands, floodplain areas, and historically sensitive sites were identified near the project location, the assessment found that no direct encroachment or adverse impact would occur.

During discussion, board members raised questions regarding long term maintenance responsibilities and potential costs associated with the trail extension. Town officials explained that the trail maintenance is expected to remain minimal and similar to the already existing responsibilities, which consist mostly of routine upkeep like debris removal.

Following the discussion, the board voted to accept the SEQR findings, clearing way for the project to move forward to subsequent approval and funding stages. It was noted that completion of the environmental review is a necessary step in securing state cooperation and advancing future development of the trail connection.

The extension is intended to enhance outdoor recreation, pedestrian connectivity, and safe access for all visitors.