County to negotiate agreements with canal companies for Van Bibber Park trail crossings

Jefferson County staff briefed commissioners on an ongoing trail project at Van Bibber Park and requested authority to negotiate crossing agreements with three canal companies to complete about two miles of trail construction.

Presenters said construction had started on the two‑mile link that will connect Van Bibber Park to the trail into North Auburn Park. Staff identified three canal companies—Farmers High Line, McIntyre and Crook Canal—whose properties the new trail will cross and said negotiated crossing agreements were needed to permit safe crossings and underpasses.

Staff showed the commissioners examples of proposed crossings and underpasses and asked the board to authorize staff to finalize agreements with the canal companies. Commissioners signaled support; staff will pursue the agreements and return with final documents as needed.