April 2012 Anyone traveling between Slatington and Walnutport has seen the dramatic results of the improvements to the Slatington Trailhead. This Trailhead serves as the hub of eight multi-use trails in the Northern Lehigh area, and is attracting large numbers of walkers, bicyclists, cross-country skiers, and fishermen. New landscaping by the D&L Heritage Corridor Commission, informational kiosks, outdoor amenities including picnic tables, benches and parking have helped make the facility more convenient and comfortable.
The biggest news is the progress made in construction of the restrooms and pavilion. All of this construction work is being done by the Venture Group, an all-volunteer association of our local volunteer civic organizations, municipal governments, and caring individuals. All funding has been obtained from donations, local fund-raisers, and hundreds of volunteer labor hours that have been contributed to the project. Completion is planned for spring of this year with installation of restroom fixtures and a slate facade for the pavilion’s kitchen. The buildings have been designed to invoke memories of the Slatington train station and sit very closely to where the original train station once stood. More funds are necessary to complete the project.Additional monies are needed to purchase fixtures and miscellaneous building supplies.
In these difficult economic times, it is rewarding to see how the entire community has come together to support the Venture Group’s effort. The trailhead will be a center of community pride and a benefit to our residents and businesses. When complete, the pavilion will be available for rental through the Borough of Slatington’s participation in the Venture Group!Rentals can initiated by contacting the Boro of Slatington at 610-767-2131.We ask that our businesses, organizations, and individuals help us move this project to completion and donate money or materials to the Venture Group’s effort. Contributions are received through the Northern Lehigh Historical Society, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, and donations are tax deductible. Contact Venture Group chairman Jason Breidinger at (484) 601-2585 in order to lend a hand!