Go where there is no path (crossing Route 1) and leave a trail (under the Nassau Bridge!)

A rough trail under the Route 1 Nassau Bridge near Lewes – thanks to cyclist Ray Quillen

An article in the Cape Gazette in January identified Ray Quillen as a “cyclist on mission for new trail.”

Ray told the Cape Gazette that, after nearly getting hit by a car trying to cross Route 1 near Lewes, he was determined to make it possible for cyclists to instead cross underneath the bridge. “This trail needs to be done before someone gets killed.”

Keeping DelDOT informed but using his own resources and labor, Ray has roughed out an unpaved trail underneath the Nassau Bridge.

“The trail is ready to use if you have an off road bike,” said Ray. “It is a little rough but it is the safe way to get across Route 1 avoiding this dangerous highway.  I put up several signs with green bicycle logos on them hoping other cyclists will start using it. I am still working on it and could use some help, but check it out .”

Ray told his local legislators Senator Ernie Lopez and Representative Steve Smyk about his do-it-yourself trail. Senator Lopez sent out a “tweet” in response.

Tweet from State Senator Ernie Lopez

In May, DelDOT held a public workshop on the Georgetown to Lewes Trail, a planned 20 mile trail that will go all the way from Georgetown (the county capital) to Lewes along a little used freight rail line. Ray Quillen’s little trail under the Nassau Bridge is a small preview of how great this trail will be. “Let’s put some money into this,” says Ray.

Sussex County Council has identified this trail as one of its transportation priorities for Sussex County. Let’s get it started!

RELATED:

• Lewes cyclist on mission for new trail (Cape Gazette)

• DelDOT Public Workshop on Phase I of Georgetown to Lewes Trail

• Why the Georgetown to Lewes Trail Attracted Us to Invest in Delaware 

• Sussex County Council Includes Lewes-to-Georgetown In Its List of Transportation Priorities

• Public Prefers Rail-With-Trail for Lewes-Georgetown Route at DelDOT Workshop

• Lewes to Georgetown Route is Overdue