Wampum Chapter Signs Agreements to Expand Trail

May 15, 2002

Wampum, PA, The North Country Trail Association announced it has an agreement with Meritex Enterprises that will allow the North Country National Scenic Trail to cross Meritex property in the Wampum, Pennsylvania area. The understanding will allow the Wampum Chapter of the North Country Trail Association to build additional miles of trail through wooded areas atop Gateway Commerce Center, a massive underground facility managed by Meritex. Chapter President, Richard Lutz said, "This is great news for all hikers who enjoy other sections of the North Country Trail. Thanks to Meritex Enterprises' permission, more people than ever will be able to enjoy the North Country Trail, and all its grandeur."

The NCTA has also signed an agreement with CEMEX Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of CEMEX, one of the world's largest cement producers, which allows the North Country National Scenic Trail to cross CEMEX's properties in the Wampum area. The understanding will allow the Wampum Chapter of the North Country Trail Association to build up to 6 miles of trail. This will connect with trail already built by the chapter in Pennsylvania State Games Lands 148. Lutz added, "Once completed, thanks to CEMEX Inc. permission, the trail will run from Sankey Hill Road in Lawrence County to the Lawrence County-Beaver County line in State Game Lands 148."

Construction on the new trail will begin as soon as possible. The Wampum Chapter formed in 1997, helps build, maintain and promote the North Country Trail through Lawrence and Beaver counties in Pennsylvania. The Chapter is one of 24 chapters spread across seven states. The North Country Trail Association is a non-profit Association organized and operated exclusively for developing and preserving the North Country National Scenic Trail by providing national coordination and assistance to the efforts of individuals and organizations, and by stimulating public support and enjoyment of the trail. In recognition of the role the trail environment plays in the experiences of trail users, the Association also strives to protect, in partnership with others, the natural, scenic and historic resources of the North Country National Scenic Trail corridor. The Association seeks to accomplish these goals through programs of public education, services to members and the public, recreational opportunities, land acquisition, planning and volunteer coordination.