HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP – The Mercer County Park Commission, in cooperation with the Mercer County Planning Office and the Lawrence Hopewell Trail Corporation have worked together to bring a new addition to Mercer Meadows. A 500-foot pedestrian bridge across the Stony Brook will open new pathways and trails to park patrons, offering new views and establishing a new section of the Lawrence Hopewell Trail (LHT). The Stony Brook pedestrian bridge and trail opened on Friday, July 3.
The new trail extension replaces an “on-road” section of the LHT as it travels down Old Mill Road, providing a much safer and enjoyable trail ride for bikers and hikers. Users will now be able to travel from Rosedale Lake onto the northern bank of the Stony Brook to experience boardwalk trails along a previously inaccessible section of the park.
“Our County park system offers so many health and recreational benefits,” said County Executive Brian M. Hughes. “Keeping safety as a primary component of this project, users will now be able to stay on the trail and off of the road. We encourage all park users and visitors to explore this new section on bike or on foot, and be sure to mask up.”
Mercer Meadows trail network connects to the 22-mile LHT, a major transportation trail in Mercer County. The development of the new trail section will open new programming opportunities and experiences to the public.
“I’d like to thank our Commissioners and elected officials who have worked collaboratively to make this iconic bridge -- and the entire LHT -- a very special community resource,” said Park Commission Executive Director, Aaron T. Watson. “Our parks and the LHT provide a wonderful outdoor experience, and we are all excited to expand on this area of the County.” To see a video about the LHT and the new bridge, go to YouTube at: https://youtu.be/4xpa-i_wPaQ
The Mercer County Park Commission works in partnership with the Lawrence Hopewell Trail Corporation, a non-profit organization to produce events, programming, health, and wellness benefits.
Mercer County parks are currently open to the public for passive recreation; use of a face covering is required if you are unable to socially distance at least 6 feet apart.
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