Mount Airy takes savings from playground project to fund Rails to Trails

Cyclists ride on boardwalk following the ribbon cutting ceremony for Mount Airy Rails to Trails on April 4, 2023. The trail spans a half-mile from the former train station on Main Street to Watkins Park along the historic B&O Old Main Line which operated from 1838 until in the mid-1970s. staff file

Mount Airy town officials got approval this week to use savings from a state-funded playground project to fund additional improvements in the town’s Rails to Trails project.

The Board of Carroll County Commissioners at their meeting Thursday unanimously approved the town’s request to take $37,731.76 left over from a playground equipment project at Summit Ridge Park, and put it toward Rails to Trails.

The funding comes from the state’s Program Open Space for fiscal 2024. The program provides financial and technical assistance to local jurisdictions for the planning, acquisition and/or development of recreation land or open space areas.

“Back in (fiscal 2024) they were allocated $138,687 to complete a playground project at their Summit Ridge Park,” said Bob Hicks, director of the county’s Department of Recreation and Parks. “Their project has been completed and it came in under budget, so they have a remaining balance of $37,731.76. They want to reallocate it toward some improvements to their Rail and Trails project that they’re doing at the east side of Main Street.”

Mount Airy has been acquiring sections of the 1838 Baltimore & Ohio Railroad line for years and converting it into walking and bicycle paths. The first section, spanning a half-mile from the former train station on Main Street to Watkins Park, was unveiled in April 2023. The railroad operated in town from 1838 until the mid-1970s.

Ashley Collier, director of Mount Airy’s Community Development, described how the town plans to use the reallocated funds on the Rails to Trails Project.

“The Rails-to-Trails segment between Main Street (Route 808) and Ridge Road (Route 27) spans approximately 2,000 feet,” Collier stated in an email. “We are pleased to share that, to date, we have completed the first 1,000 feet of this trail. The remaining section is estimated to cost around $100,000 to complete, and this grant funding will allow us to reach that goal, making the entire trail section accessible and ready for public use.

“These funds will specifically support paving the trail, enhancing its accessibility and longevity,” Collier stated. “This paving will complete the surface of the remaining 1,000 feet we’ve already constructed, offering a smooth, accessible path for walkers, bikers and strollers alike.”

Summit Ridge Park is located 701 Buffalo Road in Mount Airy. The park is 27 acres, includes fields for football, baseball, softball and soccer, parking and the playground.

“The new playground equipment offers a range of modern features designed for safety, durability, and inclusive play for children of all ages and abilities,” Collier stated.

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