RAILS TO TRAILS LETTER TO

NEWTOWN BOROUGH COUNCIL

Dear Bob Walker,
We are writing to you regarding our towns sincere interest in the outcome of one of the subjects slated for
discussion on April 6th. It is our understanding there will be a discussion regarding the Rails to Trails
project slated to run through, and terminate, in Newtown Borough. Then a subsequent vote is to be taken
on a non-binding resolution for the project to be officially reviewed.
It is our understanding that the funds for the design and construction of the pathway/park will be secured
by the county.
Therefore the topic for discussion at your meeting is the funds required for annual maintenance. Several
of the council members that we have spoken with have voiced concern about committing funds on behalf
of the residents, and funds that require future support. This fiscal responsibility is one of the current and
past councils strengths. This has resulted in responsible cost management that in turn has kept our taxes
reasonable and stable and is a strong and valuable asset to our real estate in the borough.
Being avid bikers, outdoor enthusiasts and more importantly borough residents passionate about our
town remaining committed to green space, both Cheryl Wood (323 East Centre Ave) and I (110 East
Centre Ave) have put together a grass roots fundraiser. Through a group of equally passionate Borough
residents and business owners we have already met our goal to fund the maintenance of the section of
the trail within our Borough, for ten years! It is clear, this is a project that your constituents are willing to
commit personal support. As our voice in council, we hope that you see the commitment and interest your
community has for this project.
Beyond financial backing, neighbors have also suggested, pulling together a team committed to doing
the cleanup and general maintenance themselves, therefore further reducing, perhaps eliminating, the
need for maintenance funds! The combination of these two options clearly shows the commitment for the
project and that any financial burden for maintenance should NOT be seen as a barrier for progress.
As spokespeople for the residents committed to either of these two solutions, we are happy to provide
Borough Council both options, and the specific details behind our efforts and commitment to the
project. These efforts show that any financial concern you may have around approving the non-binding
resolution at the work session on April 6th should be assuaged.
Best Regards,
Doug Levin and Cheryl Wood