MOUNT VERNON — The city of Mount Vernon Parks Department is carving accessible trails around West Lake and East Lake at Foundation Park this spring. The advance chain saw work is being done by Geoff Oliver, director of the parks department, and the land clearing by Roger Hite on his 1972 International TD8-E bulldozer.
The work is expected to take two weeks, with finish grading, tree trimming and planting this summer. The trails will provide views of the lakes as well as the Kokosing River. Two picnic areas are planned along the new trails.
“These trails will allow easy access for hiking and walking around the lakes,” said Mount Vernon Mayor Richard Mavis. “We want Foundation Park to be as accessible to as many people as possible, and these trails are a great start.”
A former stone quarry, Foundation Park is a 145-acre urban park owned and being developed by the city of Mount Vernon. It is located east of Ohio 3/U.S. 36, west of South Main Street and south of the Kokosing River. The park is open now for hiking, fishing and picnicking, with access off of Ohio 3/U.S. 36 or Madison Street. Non-motorized boats are allowed on the three lakes.
Future uses in the park will include paved bike trails which will connect with Riverside Park along the dike way, paddle boating and mountain biking. Rest rooms, an amphitheater and activity center building are being planned as possible park structures.