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Council approves Peter Street connection to Woodpecker Woods trail after permitting debate
Summary
After debate about permitting, erosion, and debris removal, the Harpers Ferry Town Council approved the Peter Street connection to the Woodpecker Woods trail by a 4–2 vote with recusal(s). Council asked for coordination with Parks & Rec and monitoring of site conditions.
The Harpers Ferry Town Council voted on June 9 to approve work to formalize a connector between Peter Street and the Woodpecker Woods trail, following prior recommendations from Parks & Recreation and the Planning Commission. The vote passed 4–2 after a failed amendment that would have required the Trail Town Alliance to obtain a permit and coordinate additional steps before work began.
Council discussion focused on whether the project needed a formal town permit and whether the existing social trail and onsite debris (large logs and construction waste) should be cleared before volunteer trail work proceeds. One councilmember argued the history of committee approvals and volunteer experience justified moving forward; another voiced concern that steep slopes, erosion and heavy logs require professional removal and a formal permit and stormwater coordination before any clearing.
An amendment requesting that the Trail Town Alliance apply for a permit, obtain approvals, and coordinate stormwater/rain-garden considerations failed; the main motion to approve the connector then passed 4–2 with two councilmembers recusing themselves from the vote. The council asked staff to ensure trail work complies with town slope/stormwater standards and to coordinate Parks & Rec, Planning Commission and the volunteer organization to address debris removal and safe construction methods.
Trail Town Alliance and Parks & Rec representatives told the council a social trail already exists at the site and described the proposed work as cleanup, stabilization and formalizing a short connection to improve access from Cambridge/West Ridge neighborhoods. Council members requested site estimates for debris removal and clarification of property boundaries and right-of-way before extensive work begins.
