By Chrissy Prichard

Express News Staff

Family and community members gathered in Inlet on Saturday, Oct. 27, to dedicate a new walking trail to its visionary, Elaine Townsend.

The trail starts at the Inlet Golf Course and continues north alongside Route 28 for about .75 miles to the Carpenter residence across from Drake’s Inn.

Townsend’s family and friends gathered and walked the length of the trail, stopping at a plaque that will be soon be installed in a special spot along the trail.

Town of Inlet Supervisor John Frey, Inlet Town Clerk Patti Wittmeyer and Inlet Highway Supervisor Shawn Hansen thanked everyone that was involved in completing the trail.

This portion of the trail is the first of two phases.

The second phase of the trail will cross Route 28 and will continue to Seventh Lake House.

Townsend had always wanted a safe path for walkers and bikers along this stretch of Route 28 so they wouldn’t have to be too close to the highway.

The trail was built in her honor and is dedicated to her memory.