Springfield Township Trails Resource Page

The trail system in Springfield Township is a work in progress. Some trails are being built, some are in the planning stages, and others are simply "to be considered sometime in the future."

At issue today is the Cresheim Trail. Recently a draft of its Feasibility Study was released for public comment (see links at right). The public was invited to comment and the comment period closed on February 29, 2008.

The process starts with a local volunteer grassroots group forming to look at the feasibility of expanding the trail system, within the long-term goals established by the county. The feasibility plan answers the questions, "What needs to be done to make this successful? What are the issues? What do we suggest?" It considers cost, property ownership rights, safety, lighting, access, and opposition from neighbors. It obtains donations and grants to underwrite the study, conduct public meetings, and create a design plan for a trail. This group has no legal authority whatsoever. It exists solely to explore and document a concept.

In discussing trails, the following concerns and issues are often raised by the homeowners whose properties abut the trails:

• Crime (vandalism and burglary)
• Loss of privacy
• Trespassing on property
• Increased street parking to enter trails
• Concerns for who will patrol the trails, especially after dark
• Legal exposure for injuries suffered by trail users
• Impact on home value
• Litter, dog droppings, etc.
• ATV use
• Fear of eminent domain ("They'll just take my property anyway.")
• Disempowerment ("They'll do what they want. I have no voice.")
• Other (exposure to power lines, danger from stray golf balls, etc.)

Read Trails: Safety, Land Value, Fears for a discussion of crime and property values