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Council approves easements and purchases to complete Heartland Trail Phase 3A
Summary
Council adopted resolutions authorizing property purchases and temporary easements — supported by more than $1 million in ODOT grant funding — to complete the final segment of the Heartland Trail from Allen to Forrer Roads, with construction expected to go to bid in spring.
The Orrville City Council on Sept. 16 approved measures to acquire property and temporary easements needed to complete Phase 3A of the WAY—Heartland Trail.
Council adopted Resolution 26-24 to authorize purchase of a parcel on Back Massillon Road and obtain a temporary easement, and Resolution 27-24 to authorize an agreement with The Will‑Burt Company for an additional parcel and temporary easement. Staff said Kristin secured more than $1 million in Ohio Department of Transportation grant funding for construction.
City officials said easements have been obtained from Elren Farms and Will‑Burt, and the acquisitions covered by the resolutions represent the final piece of trail between Allen and Forrer Roads. Staff indicated the project should be ready to go to bid in the spring following final easement and right-of-way clearances.
Council adopted both measures after motions to suspend rule readings and recorded unanimous ayes in the minutes. Council members noted the grant-funded nature of the work and that costs for the easements and right-of-way acquisitions will be borne by the Rails‑to‑Trails program rather than the city’s general fund.
If the ODOT-funded grant remains in place, the city expects to proceed with procurement and construction scheduling in the coming months.
