Times Observer photo by Josh Cotton Officials met on Longhouse Scenic Drive Wednesday to discuss a 2.5 mile expansion to the Trails at Jakes Rocks. That conversation included, from left, State Senator Scott Hutchinson, Ryan Irwin with Pa. American Water, WCCBI’s John Papalia, Sean Graves and Jon Natale with Pa. American Water and City of Warren Mayor Dave Wortman.

A grant from Pennsylvania American Water Company is set to expand the Trails at Jakes Rocks.

Officials met at the site of the proposed trail on Wednesday.

WCCBI Director of Operations John Papalia said the Laurel Trail, about 2.5 miles, will run from Ohi:Yo Way, which intersects Longhouse Scenic Drive, and the Dewdrop Campground along the Allegheny Reservoir.

He said the extension will “open up many more loops” for users of the system.

The funding totaling $15,000 comes from the American Water Charitable Foundation that “stepped up in a big way” to make the expansion possible, Papalia added.

“What a beautiful place you live in,” Sean Graves, Pa. American Water’s director of operations, said. “We are excited to be a part of this.”

Gary Lobaugh, External Affairs Manager for Western Pa., said the grant, which was part of a competitive process, highlights the company’s commitment to being a good neighbor as well as supporting projects that boost community sustainability.

Graves called this trail “one of the best fits” in that lens. “You really have a beautiful, beautiful county.”

State Senator Scott Hutchinson credited the WCCBI for their “willingness to help us grow” a recreational offering.

He said this expansion will make the system more successful and bring people from “far and wide.

“I’m excited to expand something that is already a great asset in Warren County.”

City of Warren Mayor Dave Wortman called the project a “huge win all the way around,” crediting those who have been involved with construction and maintenance work.

Andy Georgakis said the goal is to have the trail completed by the end of fall.

Dirt Artisans, a contractor utilized throughout the project, will complete the work.

“We have an awesome playground here,” Georgakis said.