Akron Mayor Don Plusquellic opened the newest section of the Towpath Trail, and cut the "ribbon" with help from 3rd grade students from Rimer Community Learning Center on September 4. Also assisting were the Director of Metroparks Serving Summit County Keith Shy (left) and Parks Commissioners Frances Seiberling Buckholzer and Carol Curtis; Project Manager Glen Stephens (far right), contractor Mike Cavanuagh (2nd right) and the President and CEO of the Ohio & Erie Canalway Coalition Dan Rice (3rd right). Councilman Ken Jones (left of center) also delivered remarks on the occasion of the newest improvement in the 5th ward.

Federal and state sources and $3 million in capital funds from the City of Akron paid for  this section from Summit Lake Community Center to Wilbeth Road. The Towpath attracts some 2-million visitors each year. Starting in 1999, and as of today, 82 miles of the towpath have been completed at a cost of over $85 million.

Mayor Plusquellic said, "It embodies the beauty of the natural world, our efforts to sustain a "green" environment, and the benefits of walking and cycling for good health and recreation. The "floating towpath" allowed mules to tow canal boats across Summit Lake until about 1890. And for these children here today - this new towpath speaks to our future."

Metroparks Rangers and the volunteer bike patrol sponsored by Metroparks Serving Summit County cycled in to the opening of the new floating towpath on Summit Lake September 4. The Parks agency maintains much of the trail throughout Summit County. Bike patrols assist visitors in a variety of ways.