Public Meetings Concerning the Future of the New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail Route

The National Park Service is inviting the public to attend one or more of four public meetings held on March 1 and March 24, 2011, to share its concerns and suggestions about the role of the New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail Route (the Trail) in working with other organizations to protect New Jersey’s important coastal heritage. 

On March 1, 2011, 2-4 pm and repeated at 6-8 pm, public meetings will take place in the Beech Room, Thompson Park Visitor Center, 805 Newman Springs Road (Route 520), Lincroft, NJ 07738. For directions, call 732-842-4000 x4312 or check online at www.monmouthcountyparks.com/page.aspx?Id=2539.

On March 24, 2011, 2-4 pm and repeated at 6-8 pm, the last two public meetings will take place in the Home Town Dairy Conference Room (elevator available), Ocean County Library, Toms River Branch, 101 Washington Street, Toms River, NJ 08753. For directions, call 732-349-6200 or check online www.theoceancountylibrary.org/Branches/tr/tr.htm.

 “Public input is welcomed and needed to evaluate and improve the effectiveness of the New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail Route in supporting public stewardship and protection of important natural and cultural resources along the New Jersey coast,” said Project Director Philip Correll.

Topics for discussion will include:

• Increased support for stewardship, interpretation, and education.
• Ideas for creating a stronger identity for the Trail.
• Options for more participation by Trail stakeholders.
• Ideas for a new management structure or agreements for improved management and coordination among Trail partners.

If you are unable to attend a meeting and would like to participate, please send your comments to NJCHTR_strategic_plan@nps.gov or NJ Coastal Heritage Trail Route Strategic Plan, 389 Fortescue Road, P.O. Box 568, Newport, NJ 08345. Go to www.nps.gov/neje for more information about the Trail.