Norwalk River Valley Trail receives donation from Wilton Kiwanis

The Norwalk River Valley Trail (NRVT) recently received $5000 from the Wilton Kiwanis towards expanding the NRVT’s East Loop beyond Skunk Lane.

The NRVT is in the process of building a 30 mile long trail from Long Island Sound in Norwalk to Danbury’s Tarrywile Park. Portions of the trail currently exist in Norwalk and Wilton, with new trail under construction now in Norwalk and Wilton and a section in Redding this fall.

The next Wilton section will cross Skunk Lane and enter one of the most beautiful portions of the Wilton Loop. While the required boardwalk makes the section expensive, it will provide greater opportunities for people to enjoy a true wetlands area and gain a greater appreciation for a vital ecosystem that’s rarely accessible. The next section will be 1,070 feet long; 790 foot long boardwalk, plus 280 feet of trail. Building this wetlands section will cost $538,200 and with generous donors. NRVT has raised nearly $400,000.

"The NRVT is grateful for the generous donation from the Wilton Kiwanis for the expansion of the NRVT's Wilton East Loop.  Extending this very well-loved trail segment is a plus for all.  Many thanks to the Kiwanis who have been steadfast supporters of the NRVT." - Beth J. Merrill, NRVT Executive Director

The Wilton Kiwanis are both supporters and users of the NRVT. “In addition to the many contributions of our members, we are proud as an organization to support the NRVT. Especially amid the challenges of COVID-19, the Trail has and will become an even more  treasured part of Wilton.”—Greg Chann, Wilton Kiwanis President

Photo shows left to right:  Jack McFadden, Past President, Wilton Kiwanis; Beth Merrill, Executive Director, Norwalk River Valley Trail; Greg Chann, President, Wilton Kiwanis; Charlie Taney, President, Norwalk River Valley Trail; Mary Anne Franco, Past President, Wilton Kiwanis; Dave Hapke, Chair, Wilton Kiwanis Contributions Committee.  Photo by Michael Franco

Learn more: www.nrvt-trail.com.