MANSFIELD — Fox Glen Park Trail winds through a peaceful, wooded area, tucked away at 496 Straub Road West.
Once a serene spot for picnics and walkers, it is now showing its age.
Cracks and asphalt broken up on the trail have become somewhat unsafe for visitors and are sparking attention from the Tower Lakes Condominiums.
Laurie Brubach, a Tower Lakes resident, is just one person who is doing what she can to involve the community.
“It is in dire need of repair, and the city really does not have the money to finish that,” Brubach said. “So, as citizens, we are trying to do some fundraising to get that paved.”
You can make donations for the fundraising here. The Richland Community Development Group will be the fiscal agent for this project. Hence any funds that you donate can be tax-deductible.
Funding roadblocks limit city support
Brubach said repairing the park became an significant issue for when a man in their community fell while walking on the trail.
One hurdle is the city’s paving budget only covers “park roads” and “streets,” leaving the Fox Glen Park Trail without funding. The restriction is tied to the ballot language that was passed by voters.
Since this pavement was originally part of a park trail and not intended for vehicle traffic, those funds aren’t eligible for this project, according to the Fox Glen Park Trail website.
The website also states the city is willing to make the necessary drainage improvements before resurfacing begins.
(Fox Glen Park Trail picnic area. The story continues below the pictures. Credit: Hannah Martin)
Pushing toward $60,000 goal
Dave Damron, a Tower Lakes resident, said he and his wife were walking the trail a year ago, early summer, when they began noticing its condition.
“I don’t think it has been touched in maybe 25 years,” Damron said, “Which makes it hard for wheelchairs, scooters and things like that.”
Damron said the goal for funds is between $50,000 and $60,000. If funding is secured by Nov. 1, the project will be a part of the city’s 2026 budget, with completion planned for the spring.
If that deadline isn’t met, Damron said they will try to extend it for next year. They are currently sitting at just a little over $20,000.
The Fox Glen Park is partnering with the City Parks Department, with hopes to enhance and expand the trail infrastructure. They are also talking with the Richland County Foundation and Milliron Foundation, Damron said.
The Fox Glen Park Trail website states it will try to leverage purchasing power to secure the best prices on asphalt, construction materials and labor, ensuring that every dollar of your donation directly contributes to the trail resurfacing effort.
The installation and repair of culverts to reduce erosion from runoff water will be put in place, as well.
(Pictures of Fox Glen Park Trail. Picture credit: David Damron)
