Black Diamond Trail Progress Report

Fifteen miles of good running surface, most with no traffic, connecting four state parks, with three spectacular waterfalls and 19 miles of interconnecting State Park hiking trails: what would you give for this type of running/hiking/skiing/snowshoeing/bike-riding/safe-commuting resource? Well, apparently not a couple hours of your time.

The meeting held on April 26 to discuss the proposed trail attracted many land owners opposed to the trail and a few snow-mobilers who want to continue to use a part of the "non-motorized " trail after construction, but virtually none of the people for whom the trail is to be designed.

The Black Diamond Trail has been on the drawing board since the 1970s, so potential users may have been lulled to sleep by the slow progress. But, events are now speeding up and everyone who wants this wonderful opportunity must start to show support. See below for a contact if you want to get help out immediately.

The Black Diamond Trail will run on an abandoned railroad bed from Treman State Park to Buttermilk Falls State Park to Treman Marina State Park to Taughannock Falls State Park. Through the city of Ithaca, the proposal is for a 16-foot corridor, with 12 feet of paved surface. From Cass Park near the Marina to Taughnnock there would be a 12-foot corridor, with 8 feet of an "all weather" (probably packed gravel) surface. There would be some nature interpretation signs and safety and traffic control signs along the trail, but for miles there should be mostly natural beauty, some of it very special.

For the running community, the trail could be an opportunity for safe, off-road races. Imagine a race not concerned with traffic control, which currently sometimes involves irate and incompetent drivers. Races up to a full marathon (out-and-back) could be run on the longest section. Training would also be enhanced, with water available at the state parks during the season.

When the environmental impact statement is completed, there will be additional opportunity for public involvement, but expressions of support or suggestions now are really helpful.

For those who wish to express an opinion or support, contact:

Sue A. Poelvoorde, Natural Resources Planner
NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
P.O. Box 1055, Trumansburg, NY 14886
e-mail: sue.poelvoorde@oprhp.state.ny.us
Phone: (607) 387-7041, ext. 117; Fax: (607) 387-3399