Stark Parks, Kent State University at Stark and Stark State College Announce Completion of Campus Trail
(Nov. 9, 2023) – Stark Parks, Kent State University at Stark, and Stark State College have collaborated to create the Campus Trail, an extension of the existing Hoover Trail. This new trail connects Price Park to the Hall of Fame Bridge through Stark State College and Kent State Stark campuses.
The project was made possible through funding from the State Capital Grant, Kent State University, and labor donations from Stark Parks for the trail construction. Stark State College invested in a widened concrete path that extended from the Frank Avenue entrance up to Mega Street.
“When Stark Parks asked for our support, Stark State did not hesitate to invest in this project by installing the wide concrete sidewalk parallel to Frank Ave., “said Stark State President Para M. Jones, Ph.D. “This beautiful campus shared by Stark State and Kent State Stark has always been an educational oasis for the community.
The new Campus Trail adds the benefits of health, wellness, nature and benefits that the entire community, as well as students, faculty and staff can enjoy.”
“The project would not have been made possible without the generosity and persistence of these partners,” said Sarah Buell, Capital Projects and Planning Manager for Stark Parks. “The intent of the trail is to encourage public access to the campuses in addition to continuing connections outlined in Stark Parks’ active transportation plans.”
Construction of the crushed limestone trail began in August, immediately following the Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival Balloon Classic. The trail begins on the east side of the brick plaza on Strip Avenue and goes through the campus’ forested section. It then connects to Kent State Stark and Stark State College campus buildings through the core of the campuses and up along Frank Avenue. The trail ends at Mega Street.
“This project represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to enhance the overall campus experience for all members of our community,” said Denise A. Seachrist, Ph.D., Kent State Stark dean and chief administrative officer. “This scenic trail, designed for bikers and walkers alike, offers an opportunity to traverse our campus in a new and exciting way, while taking in the natural beauty that surrounds us. We are happy to partner with Stark Parks and Stark State College on this exciting project.”
A dedication ceremony is scheduled for Nov. 20 at 10:00 a.m. in front of the Kent State Stark Main Hall to celebrate the Campus Trail’s opening, with a larger event is planned in spring 2024.
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About Stark Parks
Stark Parks manages 15 parks, 4 lakes, and over 120 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, totaling over 6,800 acres of land. For more information on Stark Parks, visit StarkParks.com.
About Kent State Stark
As Stark County’s only public university and Kent State’s largest Regional Campus, students can begin coursework in more than 370 Kent State programs of study or choose from over 25 bachelor’s and associate degrees that can be completed entirely at the Stark Campus. Learn more at http://www.kent.edu/stark.
About Stark State College
Stark State College is a student-centered, comprehensive community college with cutting-edge career programs that reflect ever-evolving marketplace demands. The College offers more than 200 associate degrees and certificates in business and entrepreneurial studies, education, engineering technologies, health and human services, information technologies, liberal arts, mathematics and sciences. Learn more at http://www.starkstate.edu.
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MEDIA CONTACT: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Angela Palomba, Community Engagement Manager
apalomba@starkparks.com, 330-477-3552
