The recently-released ABC Trails Plan is a roadmap for trail and route development in Allen, Bourbon, and Crawford Counties. The plan makes a number of recommendations for new bike routes, new trails, and new bicycle touring and bikepacking routes.
Among the projects detailed in the plan is a section devoted to enhancements of the Lehigh Portland Trails.
Here are the details, in full:
Lehigh Portland Trails Improvements
The Lehigh Portland Trails have been rated one of the top trail systems in Kansas, but need some improvements to reach their full potential as both a recreational amenity for Allen County residents, and as a tourism draw.
In a 2018 community survey conducted by students from Kansas State University, the top requested amenity was restroom facilities, followed by covered shelters, water access, improved signage, and expanded parking.
In addition, the park offers significant potential as a regional educational resource, offering a unique opportunity for both outdoor classroom studies and self-guided studies of diverse natural environments, plants, and trees.
Short-term goals for the Lehigh Portland Trails include restroom facilities, additional shelters, water access, and additional trail mileage. Long-term goals for the Lehigh Portland Trails include support for educational programs, including event facilities, prairie restorations, and natural environment improvements.
The ABC Trail Plan sets goals for the project, but does not specify details about a timeline or funding. It will be up to the community of trail supporters and volunteers to implement the plan over the coming years.
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