Ryan Fitzpatrick, a 14-year-old Life Scout and rising sophomore at Engineering and Science University Magnet School, has decided to restore and beautify a trail in Edgewood Park as his Eagle Scout service project. The trail, located just off the Edgewood Avenue bridge over the West River, leads to the old soccer fields.

Project Details

Ryan plans to improve the trail by removing weeds and hazards, adding gravel, and installing new signage. He presented his plans to the Commission on Parks, Programs, & Recreational Facilities, which did not require a vote for approval. The Parks Department has been helpful in coming up with options for the project, and the goal is for the area to eventually be re-dedicated as the Edgewood Bird Sanctuary.

The area has become a wetland after a 2012 tidal marsh restoration project, attracting many birds. The Menunkatuck Audubon Society is prepared to install nest boxes in the bird sanctuary once it’s completed. Ryan’s project aims to make the trail more accessible and inviting, with a noticeable entrance and a wider path.

Original reporting: New Haven Independent — read the source article.