The officers and directors of the Clearfield County Rails to Trails Association recently recognized the late David Ammerman’s contribution to the establishment of the Rail Trail by officially naming it “The David S. Ammerman Trail.” Signs were erected at four spots along the trail to memorialize Ammerman’s accomplishments.
Some 20 years ago Ammerman had the idea that the abandoned railway between Clearfield and Grampian would make a great trail for recreation. Like many good ideas, Ammerman’s dream was initially greet by some with skepticism. Ammerman had not only the vision, he had the energy, persistance and enthusiams to turn his idea into reality. He combined those qualities with the people and skills and knowledge that he had developed during 40 years of practicing law.
Ammerman was able to excite other locals with his idea. In January 1991 the organization was formed as a Pennsylvania non-profit corporation. The original Board of Directors were: Fredric J. Ammerman (president), Don Miller (vice president), Eugene Lunsford (secretary/treasurer), Clyde Ransel, Nick Sabonash, Joseph Zelenky, Dr. Richard Taggert, Terry Malloy, James Moyer, Andy Ross Jr. and David Ammerman, who also provided free legal services as the solicitor. Added shortly thereafter tot he board are longterm members Bill Shaw, Pat Malloy, Benny Irwin and Bruce George. On July 30, 1992, CCRTA purchased the abandoned railroad line from ConRail.
The board engaged architects and engineers to design the trail. Beginning in 1994 through 1998, the organization obtained $405,000 in enhancement grants from the Federal Department of Transportation, $225,000 in recreational grants from what is now the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and $20,000 from then-Clearfield County Commissioners Mike Lytle, Jerry Hatcher and Eugene Lunsford. The first stage of the trail, 5.3 miles from Clearfield to Curwensville, was completed in 1996. The second stage, 5.2 miles, from Curwensville to Grampian, was completed in 1998. A ribbon cutting ceremony to officially open the trail was held Oct. 4, 1998.
Of the principle bridges on the trail, rehabilitation of the large railroad bridge over the Susquehanna River was performed by John Crissman Contracting Company, which donated all labor, equipment and materials. Lezzer Lumber donated many thousands of dollars in lumber and materials to construct the two smaller bridges and for the mile posts along the trail. Many other local people and companies assisted in the effort to establish the trail. Over its 20 years of building and maintaining the trail, CCRTA has never held a public fundraiser.
Today, thanks to Ammerman’s vision, the local communities are blessed with one of the nicest rails to trails in Pennsylvania. This recreational resource is only minutes away from homes in Clearfield, Curwensville and Grampian. It is open year-round at no charge. All are free to use it for walking, running, bicycling and cross country skiing. No motorized vehicles or horses are permitted.
Ammerman passed away on July 8, 2010. However, his dream of a rail trail from Clearfield to Grampian lives and benefits future generations.
More information about the Assocation and the trail can be found online.