Residents are advised that current closures of portions of the Indian Head Rail are expected to continue through late July 2015. Frank Ward, chief of Codes, Permits, and Inspection Services for the Department of Planning and Growth Management briefed the Commissioners today on the Indian Head Rail Trail project. Ward reported the reclaimed water pipeline installation within the trail is complete. Restoration of the trail is ongoing. Work is subject to weather conditions and adverse weather may cause delays in project completion.
Approximately 2,000 feet west of Bumpy Oak Road to Route 301 (Crain Highway) is closed to public access. The first five miles of the Indian Head Rail Trail (from Mattingly Avenue to just west of Bumpy Oak Road) are open to the public throughout the construction period.
“While the restoration phase of the project resulted in a necessary extension of the closure beyond our estimated time line, we are working diligently to ensure the trail is fully restored for public use and enjoyment as soon as possible,” said Commissioner President Peter F. Murphy.
Commissioner Vice President Ken Robinson (District 1) said, “Though I am disappointed the trail will be closed for about a month longer than anticipated, I want to compliment county staff on making sure we get this done right instead of fast, as the trail is an asset that will be enjoyed by county residents and visitors for generations to come.”
“My family is ready to get on our bikes and pedal down the Indian Head Rail Trail. This trail is a great place to enjoy leisurely bike rides, and I look forward to it reopening,” said Commissioner Amanda M. Stewart, M. Ed. (District 3).
Signs are posted along the trail to identify closed areas. Please be aware of equipment and contractors on the trail and do not enter closed areas or come within 300 feet of active construction work. Visitors are asked to be alert for hazards and increased construction vehicle traffic when using these areas.
Sections of the Indian Head Rail Trail closed in July 2014 to accommodate installation of a reclaimed water line that will service the future Competitive Power Ventures (CPV) electrical power plant. On average, the CPV power plant will use 3 – 5 million gallons of water per day; about 86 percent of this will be consumed and not discharged into the Potomac River. Also, installation of the water line protects the county’s long-term water reserves by eliminating the need to tap into drinking water aquifers. In addition to being an environmentally friendly neighbor, the CPV power plant is expected to generate more than $100 million in total revenue for the county in the next 20 years.