Towner's Woods getting new bathrooms, repaving and other upgrades

Towner’s Woods is getting some updates, but they mean the park will be closed for the summer— and maybe longer.

On deck and already underway are:

• Relocating the PORTAGE Hike and Bike Trail from traveling through the middle of the parking lot to behind the Switch Tower building, separating trail traffic from vehicles.
  
  
• Adding flush restrooms and a drinking fountain.
  
  
• Repaving the parking lot and creating a trailhead gathering area.
  
  
• The historic Brady Interlocking Railroad Switch Tower is also being restored to reflect its original design. Contractors are repairing the structure’s concrete walls and replacing the roof. The building will be used as an open-air shelter on the first floor with informational displays inside. Once completed, it will be open to the public.

Later this summer, a new 29-car parking area will be developed on the west side of Ravenna Road along the trail, south of the bridge. The lot will serve both Towner’s Woods and the Portage Hike & Bike Trail.

While the park remains closed, bicyclists and hikers will be able to ride, walk and run from Ravenna to just before Towner’s Woods. Anyone needing to get to Kent from Ravenna will have to plan a road route from the trail intersection at Red Brush Road to Ravenna Road or Lake Rockwell Road.