Walking trail coming to Hampton Community Park

Visitors to Hampton Community Park could be enjoying a new walking trail by early May.

Construction has begun on a limestone-covered stone path that will loop around the northern section of the park and connect with the Rachel Carson Trail.

The cost is near $900,000.

The contractor, Independent Enterprises, will build the trail in two phases.

Township Manager Chris Lochner said Phase 1 will see a 4,330-foot path built from the Rachel Carson Trail at the northern-most end of the park to the township soccer fields.

For safety concerns, the main playground closest to the community center will be closed during construction.

Other fields and courts are expected to remain open.

Hampton Community Park comprises 195 acres with seven pavilions, a community center, pool, pond, playgrounds, baseball fields, multiple sport courts and soccer fields.

Phase 2 is scheduled next year. That section of trail will extend from the soccer complex around the community center where it will connect to the first phase just north of the Grubbs Pavilion.

Lochner said the amenity has been long-discussed as part of the township’s comprehensive planning.

The costs are being supplemented by a county grant.

The township was awarded $200,000 through the Gaming and Economic Development Fund of the county Redevelopment Authority.

Signs and lighting will be installed along the track for safety and wayfinding.