Work to improve trail at popular park

PERKINS TWP. — Perkins Township officials recently informed the public about their intentions to improve a trail at Strickfaden Park, one of the area's most popular green spaces. But, to do so, they'll need to close off a portion of the walkway. A work order calls for a culvert replacement on the path spanning Pipe Creek. A culvert is a structure channeling water past an obstacle. Brad Link, the township's public works director, gave a primer on what's to come: • The problem: "The trail that passes over the culvert is beginning to show signs of fatigue on the trail edge. We want to be proactive in making the repairs to keep the trail as safe as possible for our residents." • The length: Only the area around the culvert will be replaced, approximately 100 feet." • The location: "The culvert is located along the center path between the shelter and the path entrance. Signage will be in place during construction." • The time frame: "The repairs will take place this spring. The work shouldn't take more than a week, weather depending." • The cost: A "cost estimate came in at $6,500. The project is funded through the (locally funded) parks fund." • The significance: "This type of work is important to keep the path as safe as possible for residents using the Strickfaden Trail."