Committee explores Parkway Woods trail connections, repurposing bridge and Eagle Scout kayak launch

The Grosse Ile Greenways Open Space Committee discussed plans to improve trail connectivity in Parkway Woods, explore moving a pedestrian bridge to span a drainage ditch there, and support an Eagle Scout candidate’s proposed kayak‑launch project.

Committee members said a pedestrian/bicycle bridge currently staged near East River could be repurposed to cross a drainage channel behind the former playscape to improve access to the Parkway Trail. "This might be a better use for it to put it over in the Parkway Woods and make that connector," one member said while describing the location behind the Jackson Center and the drainage ditch that runs east‑west behind the playscape.

The committee also discussed a prospective Eagle Scout project from an Eagle Scout candidate identified in the meeting as Joshua (last name uncertain in transcript), who is considering a kayak launch at Moreland near the bird sanctuary or at other north‑end township properties. Committee members noted the locations have parking nearby and would attract users if a safe, mapped launch were provided. The candidate will need to develop a formal project plan, secure scoutmaster approval and coordinate with township staff; the candidate told the committee he would like to complete the project by the fall.

Committee members said they will map the connector route, solicit input from local kayakers about launch locations and assess site work needed to manage mud and drainage. Public‑works staff provided information about possible material needs; volunteers and a future Eagle Scout service project were discussed as ways to reduce contracted costs.

No binding commitments to relocate the bridge or to approve a specific kayak launch site were made at the meeting. Committee members directed volunteers and staff to walk the Parkway Woods corridor, assemble a map of proposed connections and bring a plan back to a future meeting for review.