The All-Persons Trail Team is excited to share two significant milestones in our journey to make Pelham’s natural spaces accessible to all. These achievements are a testament to the incredible support and collaboration within our community.
Hermit Woods Trailbuilders Selected for the All-Persons Trail: We are thrilled to announce that Hermit Woods Trailbuilders, LLC (HWTB) has been chosen to construct the All-Persons Trail at Merriam Farm Conservation Area. After evaluating nine trail-building companies and securing five competitive bids, Project Manager Brian Johnson identified HWTB as the standout choice. Since 2012, Sam Brakeley, founder of Hermit Woods Trailbuilders, has specialized in building hiking, biking, climbing, and universally accessible trails. Sam brings a wealth of expertise in planning, layout, project management, and construction. A Colby College graduate and Appalachian Trail through-hiker, Sam is also an accomplished author and outdoor adventurer. Learn more about his work and adventures at www.sambrakeley.com. This collaboration marks a major step forward in making Pelham’s natural spaces welcoming and accessible to everyone.
Community Support in Action: Building the All-Persons Trail is a true community effort. The project’s estimated total cost is $200,000, and thanks to generous contributions and volunteer support, we are making remarkable progress.
In-Kind Donations:
- Hirsch Logging & Lumber Company: Cleared trees in the parking lot area (Valued at $5,000). This essential step helped expand parking and clear the way for accessible spaces.
- Pelham Highway Department: Expanded the parking lot (Estimated at $20,000). Their expertise ensures that the infrastructure supports all visitors.
Cash Donations:
- Pelham Forestry Committee: $25,000
- Pelham Conservation Commission: $25,000
- Pelham NH Council on Aging: $25,000
- American Legion, Post 100: $2,500
- John H. Hargreaves Memorial Post 10722 VFW: $1,000
- Pelham Good Neighbor Fund: $2,500
- Pelham Community Trail Coalition: $1,000
Parking Lot Expansion Brings Us Closer to Accessibility Goals: Thanks to the efforts of Craig Hoffman and the dedicated Pelham Highway Department team, the parking lot at Merriam Farm Conservation Area has been expanded, enhancing access to this beautiful outdoor space. While final resurfacing will take place in the spring, this improvement is a significant step forward in our commitment to creating universally accessible trails.
We also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Paul Gagnon, Linda Irish Simpson, and her husband Jim for their tireless work clearing vines and debris from the parking area. Their dedication and countless volunteer hours have made a real difference.
Closing: A Season of Gratitude and Hope: This holiday season, we celebrate the spirit of giving and community that makes projects like the All-Persons Trail possible. Together, we are making Pelham’s outdoor spaces more welcoming and accessible for everyone. Thank you to all who have contributed their time, talent, and resources. May your holidays be filled with joy, and may the new year bring even more opportunities to enjoy and protect the natural beauty of Pelham. Happy Holidays from the All-Persons Trail Team!
Yvonne La-Garde, Chairperson
“Connecting Communities, Inspiring Active Lives, Building & Sustaining Inclusive Community Projects for All”