We will hopefully be partnering with MORE this year to again assist in some of the work they are doing on trails at Patuxent Here is a project update. Please look out for trail workday announcements.
MORE has been waiting for some needed updates to their bridge design plans. They are now very close to having the updated bridge designs approved by SHA so they can order materials for the final trail bridge of Phase 1. We hope to order the materials in the next few weeks.
They will need everyone’s help for this bridge build, because we will have to hand-carry in all the lumber from the road. Stay tuned for next steps on the bridge. This will be the last trail section of Phase 1. We will also be painting trail blazes and adding signage.
Also, MORE is happy to report that they have approval to continue working on Patuxent Phase 2. They are ready to capture GPS tracks and request various permits. This will be the next trail section from Mullinix Mill Road to Long Corner Road, plus parking improvements. DNR and SHA are working together to build a new parking lot on Woodbine Road (MD-97) in Howard County. We will have a new short trail spur connecting this parking lot to the existing trail. We will also be resurfacing the parking lot on the Montgomery side of the river off Annapolis Rock Rd and the parking lot at Mullinix Mill Road and adding curb stops to both lots.
We are also working with the park staff regarding any needed trail work downstream, near Howard Chapel Road. The Red trail has been extended, and there are plans for more hand-built trails to expand the trail network from the visitors center and parking lot on Georgia Ave.