TK Park Adds Paved Trails, Boardwalks, and More in $1.2 Million Expansion
ASHLAND — Big changes are underway at Tom Kruse Wildlife Conservation Park and the adjacent Davy McClure Outdoor Education Center, where crews are building a new paved two-mile walking trail as part of a multi-phase $1.2 million improvement project.
Ashland County Park District Director Eric Schneider said the investment will transform the 70-acre property into a year-round hub for recreation and environmental education.
New Trails and Boardwalks
This week, Mc.B Paving & Sealcoating began construction for the foundation to start laying asphalt for the 10-foot-wide trail, which will wind through the park and connect with Byers Woods.
“The majority of the paved trails will be done by late fall,” Schneider explained. “The loop around the pond and the Byers connector boardwalk will follow in the spring.”
Two composite boardwalks are also part of the plan — one spanning the park’s pond and another skirting wetland areas near Byers Woods.
The multi-use trail will accommodate walkers, bicyclists, skateboarders, and people using wheelchairs, much like the popular paths at Freer Field.
The project goes well beyond the trails. Plans include:
A nature playscape on the north side of the pond.
A significantly expanded fishing pier, three to four times the current length, to relieve crowding at the popular spot.
Infrastructure that will support and expand the educational programming already hosted at the David McClure Outdoor Education Center, built through private donations.
“Everything we’re doing here really complements what the community started with the nature center,” Schneider said. “Now we’re stretching that further, giving families, students, and visitors more ways to connect with the outdoors.”
The expansion is being funded through a state capital improvement grant secured with the help of State Rep. Melanie Miller and former Rep. Mark Romanchuk, which was then leveraged with Clean Ohio funds.
“This $1.2 million investment is all about adding value,” Schneider said. “We’ve had tremendous support from the community, and this project will make sure TK Park is a destination for years to come.”
Schneider noted that the Ashland County Park District, now more than 20 years old, is shifting from land acquisition to park development thanks to levy support.
“Freer Field is our number one park location right now, mostly because of its paved trails,” he said. “Byers Woods is second. Once everything is completed here at TK Park, I think we’ll see really strong visitation. This will become a community hub.”
Looking over the progress, Schneider reflected on the legacy of Davy McClure, for whom the education center is named.
“Tell you what, Davy would be proud,” he said with a smile. “I can just see him smiling about this.”
