Residents Object to Walking Trail Near Meadow Park

residents told council members this week that they do not want a walking trail constructed in Meadow Park, near S. Fourth and E. Thomas streets.

Council received a $47,000 grant in February from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to use on improvements for the park. The park, containing a small playground, spans a total of two blocks and contains a flood plain with trees and plants.

Judy Jones and Joseph Loew, who live near the park, oppose any plans for a walking trail. Jones, speaking to council, voiced disapproval of the playground and called the trail plans invasive.

“I always thought the council was here for its people. This is not for us. We don’t want this,” Jones said.

Loew found out about the walking trail plans when a bidder arrived at the park to estimate constructions costs. He claims many weeds have grown in areas of the park and the walking trail will be near a flood zone that is home to mosquitoes, ticks and groundhogs.

"It just doesn't make sense... We don't care what it looks like. We just don't want it," Loew said.

Loew angrily claimed officials did not pay attention to Jones when she addressed council.

“I noticed no one took notes during her speech. So, it’ll be forgotten,” Loew said.

Council president Jack Felch responded. “This is not the forum for that type of detail.”

“As a borough citizen, I expect you to hear what I have to say instead of cutting me off,” Loew shot back.

Bids for improvements to the park have exceeded the grant amount and some of the money has been put toward plant use. The lowest bid amount exceeds the awarded amount by $20,000, Borough Manager Timothy Paashaus said.

Construction of the trail will not be finished in the near future, Felch said.

Councilman Dennis Balascak offered to have a special meeting with Jones and Loew in July. “We can have a meaningful meeting at a workshop session and meet all of your concerns,” Balascak said.