Despite predictions of heavy rain, nearly 30 people showed up on Saturday morning, October 4th for the Shoreline Greenway Trail’s “First Saturday” hike in Branford.
Led by Leo Cristofar and Chet Blomquist, with the able assistance of Dave and Peg Stamp, the walkers set off from the Shoreline Kennel Drive off of Pine Orchard Road along the Greenway Trail. We passed Chet’s Pond and viewed the osprey nest on top of the communications tower on the other side of the pond. Awesome!
We then turned down the public works road to head for the old dump, long referred to as “Mount Trashmore” and newly dubbed Ecology Park. As the group started up the new road built by the town to the top of the hill, the rain started down in earnest. The group pressed on to the top to discover a lovely gazebo and fabulous views of Long Island Sound and of church spires and the roof of the Branford Library.
As the rain became heavier, we huddled in the gazebo along with other visitors to listen to brief messages from First Selectman Jamie Cosgrove and Solid Waste Management Commission Chairman Mario Ricozzi officially opening and dedicating the park. A short trail circles the top of the hill, with strategically placed benches. There are several handicapped parking spaces on top, with more parking at the base of the hill. Automobile access is through the old dump entrance on Tabor Drive. A great new addition to Branford’s open space!
After a visit cut short by the rain, the walkers descended and entered the woods to walk along a section of the white-blazed Branford Trail and back to their cars. Despite the bad weather, fun was had by all and the walkers expressed enthusiasm about the Shoreline Greenway trails and the new park.