Mountain Maryland Trails Honored for Transformative Volunteer Efforts Along GAP Trail
Mount Savage, MD—April 15, 2024— In a heartwarming display of community collaboration and volunteerism, Mountain Maryland Trails (MMT) has been commended for their remarkable efforts in enhancing safety and preserving local history along the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail.
The story begins in April of 2021, when a landslide struck at mile point 11.5 along the GAP trail, posing a significant safety hazard for trail users. Despite initial mitigation efforts, it became evident that a structural fix was necessary to prevent further land movement. Allegany County Government enlisted the expertise of GeoStabilization International (GSI), and a permanent solution was implemented in Spring 2022 at a cost of just under $170,000.
The repair inadvertently created a new safety concern—a steep drop-off beside the trail. Recognizing the need for additional safety measures, Allegany County Government turned to Mountain Maryland Trails for assistance to install some basic fencing. Without hesitation, MMT rose to the occasion.
In a remarkable display of community spirit, MMT volunteers swiftly mobilized to install fencing along the hazardous stretch of trail. What sets this effort apart is not just the speed with which it was accomplished, but the attention to detail and historical significance of the materials used really took this project to the next level.
Using locally sourced materials, including railroad rails donated by Western Maryland Scenic Railroad and Pen Mar Recycling dating back to 1920, MMT volunteers constructed a 150-foot railroad rail fence. The fence not only serves as a safety barrier but also offers a picturesque viewpoint overlooking the historic town of Mount Savage—a community steeped in railroad heritage.
The collaborative effort involved numerous individuals and organizations, including Denny from Bill Miller Equipment, Brook from Atkinson Welding, Doug from Hewitt Construction, Rick from Up Right Fence, and Francis from the Allegany County Sheriff's Department, among others.
John Emerick, Rick Bartlett, and Larry Brock, along with John and Kermit from Atkinson Welding, worked tirelessly to erect and secure the rail in place. Francis operated the excavator to position the rail, ensuring its stability and effectiveness as a safety barrier.
Allegany County Government extends its sincere appreciation to Mountain Maryland Trails and all volunteers involved for their dedication, ingenuity, and commitment to community well-being. Their efforts serve as a shining example of the transformative power of collective action and community stewardship.
For more information about Mountain Maryland Trails and how to get involved, please visit https://www.mountainmdtrails.org/.
About Mountain Maryland Trails:
Mountain Maryland Trails is dedicated to promoting outdoor recreation, preserving natural resources, and enhancing quality of life in Allegany County and beyond. Through collaborative efforts and volunteerism, MMT strives to create a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable trail network for all to enjoy.