By KUSH staff
(Cushing, Okla) — Cushing Commissioners, City workers, community members and grant-writer Valerie Branyan were in attendance for breaking ground for the new Memorial Park Walking Trail October 30, 2019.
In late 2014, Branyan, along with the help of Sara Payne Keyes, worked diligently toward applying for a federally funded grant – the Recreational Trails Program Project. Fellow citizens came out in support of the project at a special informational meeting in January 2015, making it possible for the application to be submitted by January 30, 2015. Since its approval, it has been up to the City to move forward and make modifications to the plans as deemed necessary. For example, under the direction of former City Manager Steve Spears, the trail would have been asphalt. Instead it will be made from concrete, making it more durable. “If we are going to do this, it needs to be done right, ” City Manager Terry Brannon said at a recent meeting.
At a special meeting of the Cushing Hospital Authority Trustees on Sept. 26, 2019, a resolution was approved authorizing the Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Cushing Hospital Authority to execute a construction contract with GCC Enterprises, Inc. for the construction of the Cushing Memorial Park Trail.
It may seem like it’s been a long time coming, but the walking trail will be a great addition to the community and a benefit to citizens of all ages. An ADA compliant bridge will be installed to give even more people the opportunity to use the new Memorial Park Walking Trail.
Construction is expected to move forward quickly with the goal of completing the project by the end of the year. In November, the community is invited to be a part of a bridge placement ceremony.
Stay tuned for updates on this exciting project!
