Making connections in Marblehead

MARBLEHEAD — The Marblehead Peninsula is one step closer to achieving a trail network that connects the region's assets and attractions. The Park District of Ottawa County's commissioners recently approved the Marblehead Peninsula Trail feasibility study final plan. "The feasibility study marks the first step toward a connected network of multi-use trails that will enhance mobility, recreation and quality of life throughout the Marblehead Peninsula and our region," said Jannah Wilson, the park district's executive director. Kicking off in late 2023, the study: • Explored trail route options • Assessed safety data • Gathered public feedback to provide the park district and other local public entities with guidance for future trail development in making Marblehead safely traversable by foot, bicycle and other non-motorized modes of transportation "It captures the vital data and community voices needed to bring this vision to life through future funding opportunities," Wilson said. "Together we are shaping a future where safe, accessible and scenic off-road trails become a defining feature of our region." OHM Advisors — an architecture engineering and planning firm — is overseeing this process. Its past projects include those with the Metroparks of the Toledo Area, Outdoor Sylvania Community Parks, Cleveland Metroparks, Geauga Park District and more. Wilson already presented the study to elected officeholders in both Danbury Township and Marblehead. People can view the study in full at ottawacountyparksoh.org. "Within it, readers will find extensive research including proposed trail routes, implementation priorities, input from public surveys, open houses and special interest groups, proposed cost estimates, funding opportunities and other data," according to a district statement. Making connections According to study findings, the top commented-on road segments are: • Alexander Pike • East Bayshore Road from Lions Park to Dempsey Access • Englebeck Road • Ohio 163 from Erie Beach Road to Cottage Cove Drive and from NE Catawba to North Buck roads • South Bayshore Road and East Bayshore Road to Church Road • North Buck Road • North Shore Boulevard Top points of interest, according to data collected: • Brown's Dairy Dock • Dempsey Access • Downtown Marblehead • East Harbor State Park • James Park • Kelleys Island Ferry • Lakeside Chautauqua • Lakeside Daisy State Nature Preserve • Marblehead Lighthouse • Mazurik Fishing Access area • Meadowbrook Marsh "This will be a multi-year, long-range plan with multiple phases, and trail implementation will prioritize access to top points of interest," Wilson said. "The Park District of Ottawa County is dedicated to preserving, enhancing, and connecting Ottawa County's natural and recreational resources for the enjoyment and benefit of all."