MILTON, Del.- Residents across Sussex County are passionate about the preservation of their land. Despite the rain on Tuesday, a ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the opening of Stephen P. Hudson Park in Milton.
This 30-acre open space parcel serves as a link between Milton and the 17-mile Lewes-Georgetown Trail. Funding for the project was provided by the Sussex County Council, the State of Delaware, the Sussex County Land Trust, and DelDOT, with ongoing maintenance to be overseen by the Sussex County Land Trust.
The location of this parcel was strategic. Mark Chura, Executive Director of the Sussex County Land Trust, says, "We're establishing a connection from Lewes to Georgetown via the rail trail, creating an open space corridor. Now, we're incorporating significant locations like this into it, forming a network of open spaces in this region of the county."
Chura further added, "This now offers easy access all the way from Lewes and Rehoboth. What excites us is that it provides a convenient hub for the many new families in our neighborhoods to park and explore the trail system by foot or bike."
Sussex County Councilman John Rieley shares his enthusiasm for this first-of-its-kind project, stating, "Our vision extends beyond preserving open space; our philosophy is that if we’re using public money, there should be public access."
This marks only the first phase of the inaugural project undertaken by the Sussex County Land Trust. Multiple projects are already in progress for the future, with this one anticipated to conclude within the next 36 months.
Mark Chura elaborated, “In this area, right down the road, Hopkins Preserve, we hope to begin work on that in the spring and have another ceremony like this with an opening about a year from now.”
Delaware State Senator Russell Huxtable also expressed his excitement for this collaborative endeavor, stating, "This was a great collaboration amongst a lot of different partners to create that open space that our community is craving. It connects right next to the trail system so it’s going to be a great spot for people to pull over and get to see some more peaceful nature."
Subsequent phases of construction will introduce additional amenities, including double the parking spaces and restroom facilities.
Five other open space projects are currently underway in Sussex County, with Hopkins Preserve expected to have its own grand opening in approximately a year. Nanticoke Crossing Park, situated by the Woodland Ferry, is another area undergoing development.