The City of New London Parks and Recreation Director Chad Hoerth and City Administrator Kent Hager have been working with the Department of Transportation and Department of Natural Resources over the past few years to develop a plan for the mile-long rail bed that would link to the Newton Blackmour State Trail.

The existing trail from Oneida through Seymour to Black Creek has been completed, and will continue on to Shiocton and New London in the next few years.

Last month the Forward New London group was approached by a bicycle enthusiast to endorse the trail and help with promoting its completion. This trail will bring bicyclists, walkers, runners, horse enthusiasts and snowmobilers to the area, which means positive economic impact so badly needed to New London.

At their monthly meeting this week, the Forward New London group will walk the mile rail bed that comes into New London to learn more about what needs to be accomplished.

The Friends Group for the Newton Blackmour State Trail will be holding their next meeting on Monday, Oct. 17. Meetings take place in the lower level of the Black Creek Community Center. Free pizza and soda will be available, and everyone interested in the trail is welcome.

This is an especially important meeting, as nominations for officers and board members will be on the agenda. If you want to get involved on trail development, this will be the meeting to attend to get your name on the ballot.

The Friends group has had a very eventful year, with the first annual 5K Run on the completed trail near Black Creek and the distribution of trail head signs to each of the communities along the trail. More exciting things are under way for the upcoming year.

For more information call Nancy Raabe at 920-984-3541.