Sheepskin Trail gets $1 million boost for expansion
Courtesy of Fayette County
Fayette County Parks and Recreation Director Joe Ambrose said the money will be used to complete approximately one mile of the trail’s southern extension into Lake Lynn, which also includes construction of a bridge over Nilan Road.
“This money should be available in 2025, and that will finish the southern extension project completely,” Ambrose said in a news release issued Thursday by the county. “We are extremely focused on getting the Sheepskin Trail completed across all 34 miles. This will be a huge boost to both Fayette County’s tourism and economic development.”
Work has already started on the Springhill Township and Uniontown portions.
Fayette County Chief Community Development Specialist Art Cappella said the Springhill Township portion of the trail will make “significant connection to the Mon River Trail in West Virginia.
“This trail segment will create and enhance connections for bicyclists and pedestrians, with the motivation being to attract visitors to Fayette County,” Capella said. “The concept is a winning scenario for both the users of the trail, as well as for the business community. In our judgment, the trail will be safe and user-friendly.”
Fayette County commissioners Scott Dunn, Vince Vicites and Dave Lohr applied for the funding through the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, which they plan to use as match funding for the STLC, if awarded.
The county also applied for a federal Active Transportation Infrastructure Investment Program grant, which would go toward finishing the trail’s design and construction.
“At the end of the day, the Sheepskin Trail is friendly toward the environment, and it affords users an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful Laurel Highlands, including all the region’s natural assets,” Cappella said.