Location

Stark County, Ohio

IMPACT

New avenues through which to experience the rich culture and scenic character of Stark County are now accessible to the public through the trail and greenway system. As a result, dozens of additional park, trail and greenway projects have been implemented throughout the county.

Stark County Trail and Greenway Plan

This plan for a county-wide system of parks, trails and open space closely followed development plans for the Ohio & Erie Canal Corridor in Stark County to forge a connection between the O&E Canal Heritage Corridor. Its planning process was shaped by public input, but only after initial field investigation was extensively conducted. Primary stakeholders formed a committee that participated in a series of public meetings to better define the community’s priorities and identify future considerations.

In association with Schmidt Copeland Parker Stevens, Environmental Design Group developed a comprehensive plan that created interconnection between:

  • Historical landmarks such as Quail Hollow State Park, Magnolia’s Flouring Mill, the Sandy Beaver Canal, the excursion rail line in Minerva and abandoned rail rights-of-way
  • Cultural attractions such as the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Walborn Reservoir, scenic roadways and branches of Nimishillen Creek
  • Recreational hotspots such as Alliance’s 2800-acre Deer Creek and downtown areas throughout Stark County