East Brady Tunnel opens several miles of Armstrong Trail
BRADY TWP, CLARION COUNTY — Even after numerous bike trips on the Armstrong Trail, the few miles Jim and Karen Ostrosky, of Valencia, rode on Friday were brand new to them, after crossing through the East Brady Tunnel for the first time.
Going through the tunnel and onto the 50 miles of trail on its other side was an experience they were happy to be a part of Friday morning, Nov. 1, as officials with Armstrong Trails unveiled the renovated tunnel for the first time.
“We always like to get to new trails, this is a new part of an old trail,” Karen Ostrosky said.
The tunnel was not safe for pedestrian use because its bricks were falling out, and there was a hole in part of the ceiling that was about 20 feet wide. The structural issues also led to flooding in the tunnel, which Chris Ziegler, director of Armstrong Trails, said could almost be “kayaked through.”
About five years ago, members of Armstrong Trails embarked on a project to renovate the tunnel to make it safe to travel through; and after years of work, they opened the door Friday morning.
While speaking at the opening ceremony, Ziegler said the connection of the trail will help promote tourism to the area, adding significantly to the economy of the areas around the trail.
“By retaining the historical integrity of the Brady Tunnel, we honor its legacy while serving as responsible stewards of our shared heritage, preservation of the unique landmark,” Ziegler said.
Joel Warren, chairman of the Armstrong Trails board of directors, said the closing of this trail gap will give more people access to the trail, giving them more outdoor opportunities.
“Closing these gaps, it all goes towards the goal of connecting communities,” Warren said. “Making recreation and healthy living available to all... the health benefits, the societal benefits of having these amenities available.”
The tunnel project received funding from the Pennsylvania Environmental Council, the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the state Department of Transportation, PENNVEST and Crawford County, which together covered the $7.7 million price tag.
Cindy Adams Dunn, secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, also commended the Armstrong Trails group at the ceremony opening the tunnel. She added that the opening of the East Brady Tunnel was the 60th trail gap the department has connected since 2009.
“By closing this particular trail gap, it opens up 100 miles of continuous trail, which is amazing,” Dunn said. “I’m in awe of the work done locally and the knitting together the community, sending your message to Harrisburg, sending your message to federal government.”
Ziegler said the tunnel will be open through the weekend, but will close Monday for about three weeks as construction crews install lighting through the tunnel.
Mary Kaufman, of Scottdale, raised her arms in a cheer as she exited the far side of the tunnel and stepped onto the other side for the first time. She was excited to see what the place had to offer.
“I’m definitely going to ride this five miles,” Kaufman said.
