Help Build The Orchard Park Section of ECRT!

Outdoor activities have never been more important to WNY. That’s why in August 2020, to meet public demand during the pandemic, a gorgeous 2-mile section of the Erie Cattaraugus Rail Trail (ECRT) was cleared and opened in Orchard Park. During our beautiful summer and crisp fall months, we welcomed about 100 walkers and hikers each week on the ECRT trail between Jewett Holmwood and Ellicott Roads. And during winter, snowshoers and cross country skiers also get to enjoy the ECRT trail.

CONNECTING PEOPLE AND CONNECTING COMMUNITIES

Erie Cattaraugus Rail Trail Inc. is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization and trail manager for the railbanked portion of the Buffalo-Pittsburgh Railway in Western NY. This 27-mile railroad right-of-way connects the communities of Orchard Park, Aurora, West Falls, Colden, Concord, Springville and Ashford. As an all-volunteer organization, we rely on donations from our supporters to maintain the former rail line and keep it safe and accessible for the community to enjoy.

PHASE 2 PLANS

The Orchard Park section was opened as phase one of the overall project. Today, it is a minimal trail with an unfinished surface. It has been so well received, we are now planning for phase 2: to improve the surface of the open section in Orchard Park and expand the trail north to connect with the Village.

The cost of these improvements and expansion will be close to $120,000 including:

• Materials, including gravel and stone dust

• Rental equipment to compact ballast

• Drainage improvements

• Protective fencing and additional signage

Thanks to a generous donor, we have received a $10,000 challenge grant that gets us started on our $120,000 fundraising goal. We need this community to help us reach this goal. Together, we can complete and expand this exciting trail.

Your contribution is tax deductible.

Please share our fundraiser on social media so we can reach our goal!

Learn more at www.ecattrail.org