New London-Greenwich Rail Trail Inc. and Western Reserve Land Conservancy have partnered to preserve 51 acres along the Wheeling and Lake Erie right of way between the villages of New London and Greenwich, Ohio. In May 2019, NLGRT purchased the 7.4-mile corridor that follows a scenic route nature lovers of all ages will enjoy.
The pathway was named The AC&Y Trail in recognition of the historical railroad that ran along this route from 1920 to 1982. Many local residents still remember the AC&Y’s yellow Fairbanks-Morse diesels running down the tracks.
The old railway, which was owned by the W&LE Railway Co., successor to the AC&Y, was vacated in 1999 to use the upgraded parallel CSX track.
Now the route has taken on a new purpose as a multiuse recreational trail, providing exercise and nature access for bicyclists, walkers, runners, skiers and equestrians alike.
The trail offers a variety of habitats, from wooded stands to beautiful wetlands, and its development will help preserve this scenic ecosystem.
While the trail is open from end to end, NLGRT has embarked on a long-term three-phase completion project, which will provide better drainage and a finished, fine aggregate surface. This project has begun at the trail’s ends and will work toward the middle. Phase 1 was completed in 2024. Phase 2 is expected to be finished by September 2026. NLGRT intends to apply for a grant for Phase 3. We look forward to finishing this work.
We have many thanks to give to the organizations, businesses and individuals who have contributed to The AC&Y Trail.
Your support, whether by volunteering or donation, is greatly appreciated. We can’t do it without you!