Class blazes educational nature trail
FRANKLIN TWP — The Leadership Butler County class will unveil a new service project, the Early Learning Nature Trail in mid-August at a public ceremony.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be at 8:30 a.m. Aug. 17 at the Butler County Children’s Center, 139 Rieger Road. After the ceremony, guests can enjoy a walk on the new trail, according to Stan Kosciuszko, president of the Butler County Chamber of Commerce.
The project to build a walking trail included the challenges of making it educational, safe and accessible for young children and those individuals with disabilities.
Aside from the work of the class members, the project also included donations from Gregor Contracting and You Name It Contracting.
The almost 900-foot trail includes an outdoor classroom, a rock-climbing area, an obstacle course and three educational kiosks that can be changed to fit the season.
Other project sponsors and contributors include Allegheny Minerals, McClymonds Supply and Transit, Hefren-Tillotson, Interstate Pipe and Supply, Shockey Excavating, Stantec, Butler Eagle, Thompson-Miller Funeral Home, Alben Sawmill, Butler A.M. Rotary Club, Mars National Bank, Butler 84 Lumber, Armstrong, Butler Media Group, EdgeMarc, Center for Community Resources, Slippery Rock University, Butler Home Depot, Minuteman Press, Northwest Savings Bank, Print King, Signs by Rick, Butler Lowes, Hampton Inn Cranberry Township, The Atrium, and Bill’s Beer Barn.
The Leadership Butler County class is a 12-month professional development program which focuses on exposure to issues, resources and opportunities for service in the Butler County area. It includes the concept of “community leadership” and skills required to be an effective community leader.
The program is administered by the Butler County Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Butler County Community College, Slippery Rock University, Butler County Tourism and Convention Bureau, and United Way of Butler County.
People who wish to attend the ceremony on Aug. 17 should register with the chamber by Friday at 724-283-2222.
