BEMUS POINT – The United Ways of Chautauqua County and the Bemus Point Central School District have opened the school’s new multi-purpose fitness trail.

The idea for the new fitness trail came from multiple team members from Bemus Point Central Schools. Through teacher and parent collaborations, a space was imagined which would encourage both students and community members to engage in healthy, outdoor activities.

“This fitness trail is a perfect example of how the interests and actions of our local school districts align so well with United Way’s mission,” said Katie Castro, United Ways of Chautauqua County Director of Advancement.

Inspired by their vision, the Bemus Point Central School staff coordinated to clear a one-mile path through the wooded area surrounding the school, creating a scenic route ideal for walking, running or biking. Mark Steenburn, a veteran on our maintenance staff, took the construction lead.

“I used to make trials all the time when I was a kid. Now I get to do it for our dragons,” Steenburn said.

The mission of the United Ways of Chautauqua County is to mobilize the community to help every person and family improve their lives. In specific, United Way invests in community programs which fall into one of the following four strategic impact areas: academic success, health & independence, ready workforce and self-sufficiency.

“Bemus Point High School Principal Adam Padd and the school’s staff created a space which not only supports physical health but fosters a sense of unity among students and community members alike,” Castro said. “It’s fitting that we are joining the district for this ribbon cutting, as it showcases our shared commitment to making both Bemus Point and all of Chautauqua County a healthier, stronger community where everyone can thrive.”

The joint ribbon cutting continues United Way’s recent increased presence in Bemus Point and partnership with all sectors of the community. The United Way recently partnered with the Bemus Point Business Association for a fundraising initiative in the village during its Fall Fest weekend.

The National Cummins grant program provided bicycles were able to be purchased for use on the trail. Bicycles were sourced from local retailers, including Loud Performance, a small business based in Bemus Point, and Pearl City Cycles in Jamestown.

Mr. Hanely’s engineering and design class at Maple Grove also played a key role in the project by drafting and fabricating custom bike racks for easy storage and accessibility, demonstrating student innovation and hands-on learning. Additionally, the Maple Grove Cross Country team and gym classes from Bemus Point Central School pioneered the trail’s use, helping to fine-tune its design.

Other classes at the school have similarly capitalized on student innovation, creating projects that add to the beauty and learning experience of the trail. Hand-built benches will be made by classes and installed on the trail, and environmental projects – some of which will include studying and labeling local plant species, have turned the fitness trail into an outdoor classroom.