Delaware County officials plan to create a new committee to examine the possible paths forward for the expansion of multiuse trails throughout the county.

Delaware County officials plan to create a new committee to examine the possible paths forward for the expansion of multiuse trails throughout the county.

Delaware County commissioners voted 3-0 on Aug. 4 to create the Countywide Multipurpose Trail Committee. The panel will be asked to create "a plan to develop and fund a countywide multipurpose trail system," according to county records.

The creation of the new board follows a suggestion by a consulting firm hired by the county to craft an economic development action plan.

Commissioner Jeff Benton said he thought county residents would be on board with the recommendation.

"Improving the countywide trail system for use by bikers, joggers, walkers, etc., is a really good idea," he said. "(It is) really important to residents. I think this is a great step forward."

Commissioner Barb Lewis said she thinks creating a countywide board is ideal because cyclists and pedestrians often travel across various borders and boundaries.

"It makes so much sense," she said. "Everyone's looking at the county as a whole instead of just their township or city."

Bob Lamb, the county's economic development director, said the new board could help the county tie into other regional trails being designed by the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission.

"That should also help create possible funding sources that we can go after," he said.

The commissioners' vote established Jenna Jackson, economic development coordinator for the county, as the new board's chairwoman.

The board will be composed of one member each from:

* the Delaware County Engineer's Office

* the Delaware General Health District

* the Delaware County Regional Planning Commission

* the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission

* Preservation Parks of Delaware County.

The board's final member will be chosen by commissioners to represent the county's residents.

Benton said he thinks appointing a member of an existing group focused on trails from within the county could benefit the committee.

"They know the system. They have connections," he said. "They understand the needs."

Commissioner Gary Merrell said the county should publicize the opening and allow any resident to express interest in being considered for the opening.

tgallick@thisweeknews.com

@TWGallick