Proposed Trail Now Has Recommended Route Through North Lake

    The proposed recreational trail through North Lake County now has a preferred route. A Lake County study focused on the North Lake Trail Phase 3, running from Altoona to the Astor area, has been completed, and calls for the trail to run up SR 19 to CR 445A to SR 40, where it would link up with another proposed trail.
   The public is invited to give input concerning the proposed route during an open house meeting scheduled for Thursday, November 9, beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Altoona School on SR 19 in Altoona.
   The study began in August of 2022, and considered a variety of routes, including taking SR 19 straight up to SR 40, and SR 19 to CR 445 past Alexander Springs. The latter option has been retained in part, with a ‘phase 2’ of the project running as far as Alexander Springs but eliminating the prospect of passing over the Alexander Springs run.
   The proposed route considers a variety of potential impacts, including safety, social and cultural resources, natural resources, physical resources, local and regional support, and costs.
   Anyone who is unable to attend the meeting but wishes to offer input may do so virtually. At 5:30 p.m. on the day of the meeting, the public can log on to https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/920985457686658392. Additionally, a listen-only phone option is available by dialing 1-562-247-8422.