The Phase IV redevelopment focused on updating the Fred J. Cusimano Westside Overland Trail in Panama and Brokenstraw State Forests, along with sections of private property south of Titus Road in Sherman.

Dry and temperate weather in August and September allowed Trail Construction Associates to complete its work without any issues. It marks the fourth year that TCA has been working on the Overland Trails.

Thom Wright, TCA co-owner, noted his appreciation to “collaborate with the land owners, the DEC and the county to bring these sections of the Overland Trails to a more sustainable level for trail users.”

“Panama and Brokenstraw State Forests are absolutely beautiful public lands, and I am incredibly happy with TCA’s updates to the Overland Trail through these two state forests,” said Jacob Bodway, CCPEG trail coordinator. “There is one important reroute in Panama State Forest that adds accessibility for all trail user groups, and TCA also did a wonderful job of addressing some of the chronic wet areas of trail along sections of private property. I can’t thank the private property owners enough for recognizing the importance of the Overland Trails for Chautauqua County residents and visitors.”

People who use Chautauqua County’s Fred J. Cusimano Westside Overland Trail in Panama and Brokenstraw State Forests will notice several improvements and upgrades, thanks to work that was recently completed through the Phase IV Overland Trail Revitalization Project.

Phase IV was funded through the generous support of local foundations, including: Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, The Lenna Foundation, The Sheldon Foundation, Chautauqua Region Community Foundation, The Jessie Smith Darrah Fund, and CCPEG. Pending future funding, Phase V of the Overland Trails project will focus on Boutwell Hill State Forest in the summer 2025.

“As we seek to improve our recreational assets for existing county residents and market the county to prospective residents, it is essential that we have quality attributes for them to enjoy,” said Mark Geise, deputy county executive for economic development, county IDA COE and CCPEG advisory board co-chair. “The trails were tired and needed some much needed TLC, which this initiative addresses.”